Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Songs for a Long Walk” – Jack Davies & The Bush Chooks

I expected Jack Davies & The Bush Chooks to be a novelty act. The Western Australian band’s EP Songs for a Long Walk features tracks like “Loving You’s Like a Mouldy Cup of Tea” and “Half Frozen Beer.” However, I quickly learned this act shouldn’t be underestimated.

As those song titles suggest, there’s certainly humour in these tracks. The lyrics are infused with a uniquely Australian voice, that blokey one that speaks to the heart but uses laughs to make sure things never get too heavy. The walls come down completely on tracks like “Broken Glass” and the closer “Michael,” two powerful songs played straight for maximum impact.

These guys also sound like a serious band. This was my introduction to their music, but their folky sound felt instantly familiar to me. In a world where so much music is overproduced, there’s something so refreshing about a band that simply sounds like they’re jamming. There’s a warmth about the way the harmonica, piano, acoustic guitar, and other instruments come together. It’s so natural, so organic and comforting.

“Each time Jack brings the band a song, it’s like greeting an old friend you haven’t seen in a very long time; joyous, surprising, exciting and feels so right. Like a piece of you you didn’t realise you were missing,” explained one of the Bush Chooks, Elise Hiatt. “They’re raw, jangly and full of love. It’s our cup of tea made just the way we like it, mould and all. We hope it’s yours too.”

It most certainly is. Songs For A Long Walk is out now.

Image used with permission from Beehive PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Stevie & The Sleepers” – Stevie & The Sleepers

Stevie & The Sleepers’ debut album has been a long time coming. The band released their debut EP Shake It Up back in 2013. Their recent 12-month hiatus might have made some fans doubt this album would ever see the light of day. But it’s here now, and it’s glorious.

The opening guitar notes of “In the Delta,” transport us back in time. This classic blues number sets the scene, ensuring we know this is music steeped in tradition. The addition of wailing electric guitars adds some modern flavour, but like the most timeless music these songs shine without heavy production. They’re anchored by this tight band of musicians and Stevie Joy’s compelling voice.

If you enjoyed the band’s recent single “Favourite Song,” you’ll love this album. The high-energy party numbers combining soul and blues influences come thick and fast. Along with the single, “Jimmy” and “Shouldn’t Of” are standouts. There is so much energy and attitude in Stevie & The Sleepers music, but the band gives us a chance to catch our breath every now and again. The gospel-infused “Young Again” and tender “Save You” reveal a softer side. These soulful ballads really make an impression among the more upbeat numbers.

Few debut albums are as polished or self-assured as Stevie & The Sleepers self-titled work. This is a band that knows exactly who they are and delivers their own brand of music with so much confidence. Was it worth the wait? Hell yes.

Image used with permission from Stevie & The Sleepers

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Chutney” – Chutney

The influence of early 2000s British indie-rock acts like the Arctic Monkeys, the Kooks, and the Wombats can be heard clearly throughout Chutney’s self-titled EP. The roughened vocals and guitar-driven melodies are dripping in nostalgia. But when it sounds this good, it’s hard to get too critical.

With just five songs, Chutney keep things short and snappy. Opening track “Consolation Prize” is a mid-tempo charmer that eases us into the recording. It gives us a great taste of what Chutney are all about before they pick up the pace with “Genie’s Lamp.” It might sing about a relationship that’s “far away from love,” but I found the relaxed earnest pleas of “Sleep With Me” irresistible. “Outcast” is a bold floor-filler that makes me crave live gigs even more. I can just imagine how this would go off in some sweaty pub. Chutney hails from the Gold Coast, but the EP ends with an ode to South Australia’s capital. “Adelaide” is a fairly gentle outro, the sort of track that might play as the party winds down.

Chutney might not be able to leave the Sunshine State, but they’re organising some local gigs until those borders open up. Home state fans can catch them with Selfish Sons at Vinnie’s Dive on September 26.

Image used with permission from the A&R Department

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Everything” – CAMP 8

New Zealand-born, Melbourne-based artist CAMP 8 has set the bar high with his beautiful debut EP, Everything. This five-song collection is haunting, hypnotic, and just what your soul needs right now.

This EP had me from the title track’s gentle opening strains. There’s a real quiet strength about this music. It’s subtle, but so moving. CAMP 8 creates lush, atmospheric soundscapes that sit so perfectly with his poignant vocals. As each song builds, the emotions behind it are palpable. I can’t remember feeling so moved by a collection of songs in a while. It’s life-affirming listening to something so stirring.

Perhaps it’s not surprising that these songs hit so hard right now, against the backdrop of the pandemic, because CAMP 8 wrote them when he was also struggling through a difficult time.

“I wrote all the songs in the couple the months before, during and after I found out that my ex-partner was cheating on me with my sister’s boyfriend at the time,” he revealed. “We all lived in a house together which all went to shit in a very chaotic 24 hours. Two months later I met my now fiancé.”

Listening to the songs, you can hear when those emotions shift. There a dark melancholy about the opening songs, but by the time “Happier” rolls around things get a little lighter. There’s still lingering sadness, but there’s an optimism about this song too. While it was inspired by very different circumstances, the hope that springs from it really resonates right now as I contemplate what the future might look like. By the time “Shudder” rolled around, I felt lighter, healed.

Listening to Everything is such a cathartic experience. It demands shutting the world out and just sitting with it for a while. How fortunate we are that CAMP 8 has released these special songs right now, when it’s just that little bit easier to do just that.

Images used with permission from Habit Music Co.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Rome” – Josh Pyke

Josh Pyke has kept us waiting five years for a new studio album, but I can’t imagine a better time for his latest collection of songs to enter the world. Rome is a welcome return for this acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter.

There’s a great nostalgia in these songs and a whole lot of love. Tracks like “Still We Carry On” and “You’re My Colour” conjure memories and speak of moments with family and friends. However, they also remind us that nothing lasts forever. Moments pass quickly, and while we hang onto the memories for a time, even they will fade as we do. That might seem bleak, but Josh suggests it can also encourage us to make the most of the time we have. Josh celebrates the passing of time in “Doubting Thomas,” encouraged that “Something good will come around again.” “Where Goes the Girl” is a tale of love lost that constantly reminds us that “It’s all over now,” yet the song still refuses to dwell. The sweet guitar melody and fond lyrics recall with tenderness that at least it happened.

Most Josh Pyke tracks are slow burners, but “I Thought We Were a River” has hit written all over it. Listening to this number, and singing along to those cheery “oo-ahh-oohs,” is an absolute joy. A brassy fanfare makes “Don’t Let It Wait” another song that’s bigger than many fans might expect. However, its message is so crucial, I appreciate the Beatles-esque symphony of sound driving it home. This album has more sonic flourishes than many of his earlier works, but the sound is considered. Everything is exactly where it’s meant to be, enhancing Josh’s message.

Josh’s unmistakable tone, introspective, wise lyrics, and warm, organic tunes feel like the musical equivalent of a big hug right now. They’re comforting, calming, and just what the world needs.

Rome will be released this Friday, August 28. At this stage, Josh still plans play his Fans First shows in October. All shows are for punters 18+:

1 October 2020 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
2 October 2020 – Old Museum, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
8 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne
9 October 2020 – Volta, Ballarat
10 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
11 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne
15 October 2020 – Mojos, Fremantle
16 October 2020 – Mojos, Fremantle
17 October 2020 – Lion Arts Factory (Front Deck), Adelaide
28 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney (SOLD OUT)
29 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney
30 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney (SOLD OUT)

Images used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Demons” – Nathan Cavaleri

It’s been nearly 26 years since local guitar whizz Nathan Cavaleri released an album. Back then he was just 12 years old, a cute kid known for his cancer battle, appearances on Hey Hey It’s Saturday, and of course that talent beyond his years. His whirlwind childhood took a toll and Nathan stepped back from the spotlight to regroup and reassess. Thankfully, after some soul searching, he’s ready to share music with us again. The result is Demons, an album that represents Nathan’s journey and the adult performer he is today.

With the album’s first single, the title track “Demons,” and his latest release, “Before You Check Out,” Nathan shows he’s unafraid of tackling the tough issues. Both songs are introspective explorations of mental illness. Sensitively handled, there’s an optimism about both numbers that balances their dark themes.

The same could be said for the whole album really. While those songs have a suitably sombre tone, they’re balanced with more upbeat tracks like the funky, psychedelic inspired “Castles in the Sky” and flirty “Crush.” A swampy cover of Cold Chisel’s classic, “Rising Sun,” is so much fun. “Drifter” is another standout. Nathan’s voice is solid throughout this album, but this instrumental number lets us focus on his sublime guitar playing. This is where he really shines. The album closes with “Chucky,” a largely instrumental classic blues number that feels so fitting. While it has some vocals, reminding us that Nathan is much more than a guitar prodigy, it’s his skills with his axe that leave the lasting impression.

With Demons, Nathan Cavaleri shows himself to be a master musician, skilled at his craft and unafraid to take risks and innovate. The album roots itself in blues traditions, but Nathan isn’t afraid to take these classic sounds in new directions. A generation of Australians fell in love with Nathan Cavaleri, the child star. Now with the release of Demons, they get the chance to fall in love with Nathan Cavaleri, the man.

Nathan can’t wait to play these songs live, so he’s working with the following venues to play shows in line with each state and territory’s COVID-19 regulations. Hopefully all these shows will go ahead with safe social distancing and other COVID-19 safety procedures in place.

2 October 2020 – The Rhythm Hut, Gosford (All ages; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
3 October 2020 – Stag & Hunter, Newcastle (18+)
9 October 2020 – Brass Monkey, Cronulla (18+)
16 October 2020 – The Pepper Tree, Aldinga (18+)
17 October 2020 – The Wheatsheaf Hotel, Adelaide (18+)
30 October 2020 – Camelot Lounge, Sydney (All ages; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
31 October 2020 – Smiths Alternative, Canberra (All ages; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
1 November 2020 – Heritage Hotel, Bulli (18+)
12 November 2020 – Sooki Lounge, Belgrave (18+)
13 November 2020 – The Catfish, Fitzroy (18+)
14 November 2020 – Live at the Bundy, Bundalaguah (All ages; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
27 November 2020 – The Baroque Room, Katoomba (18+)
3 & 4 April 2021 – Bluesfest, Byron Bay (All ages)

Images used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Live” – Ian Moss

Like many music lovers, I miss attending concerts most of all in these pandemic times. Live streams fill the void somewhat, but who knows how long it’ll be until I’m sitting in a room with other music lovers watching one of my favourite artists perform once again. The cravings are real, but Ian Moss has gone some way towards satisfying them with the recent release of his live album, simply called Live.

Recorded over two shows at Canberra’s Playhouse and Sydney’s Enmore Theatre in July 2018, the album captures all the electricity of one of Mossy’s live sets. The tracklist balances popular Cold Chisel and solo singles with some unexpected gems. Well-known tracks like “Choir Girl” and “Tucker’s Daughter” are perfect for singalongs while the less familiar numbers give Mossy space to spread out and experiment. I found myself marvelling as he jammed out with his six-piece band on tracks like “Janelle” and “One Long Day.” This album captures so beautifully those moments that would floor you in the room, where the musicians are so totally caught up in the groove.

“It was great to be back out and touring Australia with a big band full of extraordinary talent and exceptional musicians and playing to some of the best audiences I’ve ever played to,” Ian reminisced. “The crew we had on the road with us were some of the best in the business and of course, having the new studio album, Ian Moss, full of songs, with me at the helm of the songwriting to play was fantastic”.

Ian Moss’s Live is exclusively available from digital services including Spotify and Apple Music. If you love what you hear, remember Ian Moss will be back on the road next year. Here are all the shows we can look forward to in early 2021.

24 & 26 February 2021 – Jetty Theatre, Coffs Harbour
27 February 2021 – Manning Entertainment Centre, Taree
5 March 2021 – The Art House, Wyong
6 March 2021 – The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie
26 March 2021 – Latrobe Performing Arts Centre @ Town Hall, Traralgon
27 March 2021 – The Wedge @ Performing Arts Centre, Sale
7 April 2021 – Swan Hill Town Hall, Swan Hill
9 April 2021 – Mildura Arts Centre, Mildura
10 April 2021 – Broken Hill Civic Centre, Broken Hill
16 & 17 April 2021 – Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns
23 April 2021 – Dubbo Regional Theatre & Convention Centre, Dubbo
24 April 2021 – Tamworth Town Hall, Tamworth
1 May 2021 – Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, Wagga Wagga

Images used with permission from Ferris Davies PRM; header image credit: Daniel Boud

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Nyaaringu” – Miiesha

I always believe we find music at the right time in our lives. Miiesha could never have known how much the systemic racism of black people here and abroad would be in the spotlight when she planned to release her album Nyaaringu. It’s a beautiful serendipity that in doing so she released the album we need to hear right now.

Miiesha is a proud Pitjantjatjara/Torres Strait Islander woman from Woorabinda in Central Queensland. She called her album Nyaaringu because that means “what happened” in her traditional language. Her songs address so much of what has happened throughout history and her lifetime. It’s an album about racial and cultural identity, about community, and about truth.

“Caged Bird” is such a powerful introduction. The production is pared back, ensuring we can hear every lyric from Miiesha. Her modern voice is complemented so beautifully by the native dialect of her backup singers, their voices supporting hers in the quiet.

Interludes between the songs add other voices to the mix. We hear the wisdom of her late grandmother, the white privileged tone-deaf voice of former prime minister Tony Abbott. These voices create a more complete picture of the issues this album touches on.

Despite the album’s name, this is a really contemporary album. Miiesha’s voice sits over electronic beats. While we hear a little traditional language, most of the album is in English. That gives her music an accessibility, ensuring the message gets through.

You can certainly groove around the house to Miiesha’s music. She’s got a great sound, such a rich voice with a beautiful tone. But she’s also got an awful lot to say that we really should hear. Lines like “Survival ain’t that beautiful, I just make it look this good for you” from “Black Privilege” and “I could be the sum of more than just something that I could control” from “Hold Strong” will stay with me.

We’ve heard it so often over the last week or so, but it bears repeating: take the time to listen. If you’ve resolved to educate yourself on the issues and hear more black voices this week, Miiesha’s Nyaaringu is the perfect place to start.

Image used with permission from EMI Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Melancholy” – Chris Lanzon

Sydney singer-songwriter Chris Lanzon wears his heart on his sleeve with the release of his latest EP Melancholy. As its name suggest, it’s a sombre affair. However, its honesty and emotional depth make it a compelling listen.

The beautiful opening piano intro sets the tone for these introspective numbers. The songs speak of the heartbreak and lingering heartache of lost love. There’s no frills or fanfare, just a man working through his emotions the best way he can. Chris recorded and produced these songs in his bedroom. That gives them a greater intimacy than your average studio recording. Most of these songs have solo songwriting credits too, ensuring his voice is undiluted and pure shining through the hurt.

That voice is so compelling. It’s brimming with emotion. If you’re feeling fragile after your own breakup, it could break you. However, Chris’ gentle tones are soothing too, as if given time it could put you back together again.

Melancholy takes us to an emotional place many of us might not want to go, but it also reminds us of the beauty that can be found in the darkness. It’s available on all your favourite streaming platforms now.

Image used with permission from Arow Agency

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Purple” – IV Dante

Barely in his 20s, Melbourne artist IV Dante wasn’t even a twinkle in his parents’ eyes when the music of the ‘80s filled the airwaves. However, the lush synth sounds and overdriven guitars that dominate his new EP Purple take me right back to my childhood. Ask a younger listener and they’d likely hear something different though. They’d hear the influences of modern indie-pop darlings like The 1975 and LANY.

Perhaps all those influences are in there, combining to create music that feels nostalgic, yet fresh and exciting all at the same time. All I know is that I was hooked from the first strains of “Napping in Night Clubs.” Like the best indie-pop music, the EP’s four tracks are sweet, but never saccharine. They go down easily, but there’s an edge about them that makes them relatable. They also absolutely make me want to dance. And being cooped up in iso, that’s exactly what I need.

Fire Purple up on your streaming service, but make sure you hit repeat. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to listen more than once.

Images used with permission from Firestarter Music