Grade: A
The summery tracks that bounce forth from “The Sound of Sunshine” might have what it takes to last through the winter. The toe-tapping reggae beats are like easy-to-swallow happy pills, and the messages sprouting around them are meaningful. Though void of any major surprises — like Franti’s popular dancehall hit “Say Hey (I Love You)” — the album has a fun vibe. “Anytime You Need Me” and “Shake it” could easily become staples of every reggae-funk playlist. This mixed-genre-music is a nice change of pace from ordinary pop.