Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Trick of the Light” – That Gold Street Sound

Trick of the Light, the debut album from Melbourne soul outfit That Gold Street Sound, has been six years in the making. It was time put to good use though, because this is one of the slickest soul albums I’ve heard in some time. There’s an impressive polish to the recording, yet the songs have lost none of the spontaneity and energy that makes this band one of the most exciting acts on the local music scene.

The album is book-ended by “The Struggle.” The first take has a feelgood retro groove. It’s the perfect introduction to the upbeat, classic soul sounds that dominant this album. “The Thrill,” with its bouncy bass line and cool interplay between the horns and electric guitar, makes me want to find the nearest dancefloor. Moving straight into the sassy “Last Man,” we barely have time to catch our breath. Even when vocalist Shaanika Marguccio sings about her isolation and longing for a relationship in “Only Lonely” or being let down time and time again in “Make It Right,” those big brassy horns create a party atmosphere.

Trick of the Light does show a few different complexions though. There’s a cool bluesiness to the title track and its follow up, “Home by Nine.” “Rain” is a beautiful ballad that wouldn’t sound out of place in the discography of Etta James or Gladys Knight. And then there’s that closing number, the piano version of “The Struggle.” It’s so stripped back it takes a moment to gel it’s the same song as the album opener. While I loved the vibrancy of the original version, this one moves me so much it might just be my favourite cut on this album. However, with so many stellar songs, I’m not quite sure. Perhaps I’ll just have to give the album another listen to be certain.

Trick of the Light is out now.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Why Don’t You Just” – Bec Stevens

Bec Stevens sounds like the love child of Missy Higgins and Camp Cope. Often her music sits in a gentle folky-rock space, but as her emotions spill over the songs on her sophomore EP Why Don’t You Just get grittier and more powerful. It was a little jarring at first, when the pounding drums kicked into opening track “10-Minute Drive.” But spend some time with Bec Stevens and you’ll start anticipating those powerful crescendos. Suddenly she wasn’t just feeling wistful, she was choking back the tears and I was right there with her.

Loss and heartache take centre stage in this EP. Bec Stevens lays her heart bare in this album, admitting she’s not OK, revealing her jealousy, conceding she’s so tortured she can’t eat. “Time it Takes” and “They Don’t Build Cars Like This Anymore” so eloquently express the feelings that come when you know you should move on, but still feel so wrapped up in the feelings attached to the very thing that brings you pain. “Stitches” is a masterclass in songwriting, a powerful metaphor for the pain that still lingers even while we’re supposed to heal.

The EP’s final two numbers provide a change of pace to the loud rock numbers that came before. “Girl” and “Fuck This Up” see Bec Stevens’ music stripped back to basics, with little more than an acoustic guitar keeping her voice company. The gentler music draws us in. The songs might not be as loud as the ones that came before, but they’re no less impactful. These songs are like the calm after the storm, a resolution and moving on, although through “Fuck This Up” we hear the cycle beginning again. A new opportunity, new insecurities and fears, all laid bare as Bec pleads for this to be different this time.

Why Don’t You Just is the kind of angry, powerful music that can only come after great loss. It’s real, raw, and so easy to connect to, whether your own loss is fresh or your scars have healed, but remain visible. It also reveals Bec Stevens as one of the most authentic and compelling singer-songwriters in this country. Wrap your ears around this one. It’s out today.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Hold Yourself Together” – Asha Jefferies

I was initially in two minds when I sat down to write this review. I have waxed lyrical about two singles from Asha Jefferies‘ EP before. “Chaos” and “Everybody Talks” were such standout songs, I wondered what I could possibly say about the EP that I hadn’t already said before. Perhaps I’d better just introduce you to the latest brilliant cut, “If You Were My Hero” and be done with it.

However to do that and neglect the EP review felt like ignoring its beauty. Asha Jefferies’ singles are gorgeous. You can certainly appreciate them out of context. But on the EP Hold Yourself Together they create a more complete, more powerful picture. They’re like pages from a diary, stories of moments that together make up a tumultuous period of time. While the singles struck me, they’re no stronger than any of the songs that haven’t garnered radio play.

Asha Jefferies is such a talent, and her debut EP Hold Yourself Together is the perfect showcase of that talent. Her poetic, vulnerable lyrics and distinctive voice that seems to effortlessly slide up and down the scale have continually impressed me. Her songs have a charming folksiness, a catchy pop sensibility, and a heart that’s undeniably compelling. Discover them. All of them.

Hold Yourself Together is out now. Asha will play the following shows to support its release.

8 February 2019 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane
9 February 2019 – Byron Bay Brewery, Byron Bay
13 February 2019 – Golden Age Cinema & Bar, Sydney
15 February 2019 – The Retreat Hotel, Brunswick
16 February 2019 – The Espy, Melbourne
17 February 2019 – The Porch Sessions, Brighton
28 February 2019 – Beaufort St Songwriters Club, Defectors Bar, Mt Lawley
1-4 March 2019 – Nannup Music Festival, Nannup

Image used with permission from Mucho Bravado

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Sanctuary” – Magpie Diaries

A sanctuary is a place to hide, a refuge from the negative forces in our lives. Great music can be that special place for so many of us, so it’s fitting that Sanctuary is the title of the latest album from Magpie Diaries. It’s great music, the kind that’s instantly comforting with its familiar Americana sound.

While this album is instantly accessible it’s not without surprises. The opening track “Beat Myself Up” is a heartbreakingly honest ballad but Magpie Diaries doesn’t keep us in that place too long; the follow-up number “When Love Comes” is a playful jam. Tracks like “Beautiful Beetroot” and “Irresistible Pie” are delivered with enough conviction that they never feel like novelties. Another tasty song, “Strawberries & Cream” is a real romantic charmer. “If You’re Hurting” feels like it could have been played in an authentic Western saloon. What a change of pace this retro track is to the energetic “Honey” that came before it. Magpie Dreams save the best for the last though; “Don’t Give Up Now” is an arresting plea.

Matt “Magpie” Johnston has such a distinctive voice and he’s ably supported by his musicians. I love the honky-tonk piano, the cry of a slide guitar … there’s such a nostalgia about these sounds. Magpie Diaries delivers organic, blues-folk music done right. Spend some time with their new album Sanctuary today.

Magpie Diaries will play shows around the country celebrating Sanctuary’s release. Catch them at the following venues.

29 December 2018 – 1 January 2019 – Woodford Folk Festival, Woodford
3 January 2019 – Nimbin Bush Theatre, Nimbin (1-4pm)
3 January 2019 – Byron Bay Brewery, Byron Bay
4 January 2019 – Federal Hotel, Bellingen
5 January 2019 – Flow Bar, Old Bar
11 January 2019 – Brass Monkey, Cronulla
12 January 2019 – Sly Fox, Enmore
13 January 2019 – Hardys Bay Club, Hardy’s Bay
18 January 2019 – Muswellbrook Hotel, Muswellbrook
19-20 January 2019 – Tamworth Hotel, Tamworth
20 January 2019 – Junkyard, Maitland
24 January 2019 – Servo Food Truck, Port Kembla
25 January 2019 – Tomerong Hall, Jarvis Bay
31 January 2019 – Stag and Hunter, Newcastle
6 February 2019 – Transit Bar, Canberra
7 February 2019 – The Old Bar, Fitzroy
8 February 2019 – The Eastern, Ballarat
9 February 2019 – Barwon Hotel, Geelong
10 February 2019 – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
15 February 2019 – Dashville, Lower Belford
2-3 March 2019 – Nannup Festival, Nannup

Image used with permission from Jo Corbett Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Self Sabotage” EP – Graace

Graace blew me away with her single “Last Night” a couple of months ago. Now I’ve listened to her debut EP Self Sabotage, I’m completely besotted. It contains six special songs that you won’t quickly forget.

“Kissing Boys” has such a tender introduction, but by the time chorus kicks in it’s breezy and boppy, with saturated synths and a great groove. But tap into the lyrics and you’ll hear lyrics of real pain, a story of momentary distractions masking heartache. It’s this heartache that dominates this EP. Painful breakups have fuelled so much great music over the years. Like the very best artists that came before her, Graace has a knack for getting her pain down. You hear it through the insightful, reflective lyrics and her beautiful, pure vocals. It’s been some time since I’ve had my heart broken, but songs like “SOS” and “Me Without You” took me right back there. By the time I came to the exquisite closing track “Spoken Word,” a devastating piece of poetry I could feel tears welling in my eyes.

Artists aspire to make music that moves us. However, most of it washes over us, failing to really make a lasting impact. Graace never puts a foot wrong here. It’s a brave collection of songs that reveals her heart, and in doing so touches the listeners’.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“No Wonder The World is Exhausted” – Ben Leece

No Wonder The World is Exhausted is one of those special albums that feels good the moment you slip it on. Newcastle singer-songwriter Ben Leece’s voice is rich and self-assured, reminding me a little of Springsteen or John Mellencamp. It’s masculine, a little gritty, the kind of voice that lets you know you’re in good hands. Add in superb instrumentation, the cry of a slide guitar, the wail of an electric, the strum of an acoustic guitar, all carefully layered, and you’re in for a real treat.

I found myself getting swept up in the romance of opening track “Rebel Alone.” “Highway Not the Dream” reminds me of what we might hear in a modern-day honky-tonk bar. There’s that classic influence, but with contemporary sounds too. Ben is so good at building on classic sounds. His tracks have their roots in country, but he plays a little with the genre, adding some sexy bluesiness, a little rock edge. It’s modern and fresh, and honestly irresistible. The rousing “A Hole” doesn’t stir you I’d check for a pulse. Beautiful ballads like “Villains,” “Smoke Signals,” and the poignant closing track “Stuck to My Guns” help balance the album’s upbeat numbers, making that “Rebel Alone” the title track introduced us to seem a little more vulnerable.

No Wonder The World is Exhausted is so accessible, but that’s not a bad thing. While it might not challenge the ear, don’t underestimate what it takes to create songs that instantly forge a connection with listeners. I loved this album from the start, but with each subsequent listen I’m falling a little deeper.

No Wonder The World is Exhausted is out now.

Image used with permission from Jo Corbett Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Baby It’s Christmas” – David Campbell

I read somewhere recently that once Halloween is over, it’s time to embrace the festive season. I haven’t trimmed my tree yet, but I’m almost done with Christmas shopping (yes, I’m one of those stupid organised people) and I’ve been happily blasting David Campbell’s new holiday album, Baby It’s Christmas since its release a couple of weeks ago.

I honestly wonder why it’s taken so long for DC to release a Christmas album. His performances at the Melbourne Carols by Candlelight are among the show’s highlights each year. And I’ve always seen him as our answer to Michael Buble, an artist who regularly tops the Aussie charts each year with his own Christmas release. He’s got a similar old-school sensibility, with bucket loads of charisma and a smooth, effortless voice.

Baby It’s Christmas is a wonderful collection of seasonal favourites delivered flawlessly. Cheery opening track “Holly Jolly Christmas” sets the scene, putting a smile on your face before the swinging title track, “Baby It’s Christmas,” penned by our own Rick Price, kicks in. Originals are always a bit risky on a Christmas album, but this one already feels like a classic. Anyone who loved David’s Swing Sessions albums will appreciate the inclusion of classic material in a similar vein like Dean Martin’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and Harry Connick Jnr’s “When My Heart Finds Christmas.” Most of the album keeps things light, with upbeat favourites like “Jingle Bells,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” But purists will appreciate the inclusion of some traditional carols. Tracks like his gospel-inspired “Silent Night” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” let DC really showcase his vocal prowess.

I think Michael Buble’s Christmas album is getting a little tired after seven years. I think it’s about time his annual silly season stint at number one came to an end. Baby It’s Christmas is a worthy successor. It’s in stores and your favourite digital outlets now.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Canyon Songs” – Slow Fades

Slow Fades showcase a classic sound and songwriting skills with their new EP Canyon Songs.

This six-track EP is a new release out of Melbourne, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it was penned in Laurel Canyon in the 1970s. Did the guys from Slow Fades manage to time travel and rub shoulders with talents like Carole King, Neil Young, and the Eagles? I can’t confirm or deny it. References to Aussie icons like eucalyptus root this music here at home, but the classic blend of piano, drums, and jangly guitar gives these songs a great Americana feel.

Vocalist and key songwriter Ben Birchall has an easy vocal style which reminds me a little of Tom Petty or Bob Dylan. The lyrics too have a similar poetic appeal to those created by these artists. These “Canyon Songs” are full of those lines that you chew on, turning them over and marvelling at them before something equally as impressive catches your ear.

Six tracks doesn’t give us a lot of time to get to know Slow Fades, but this EP really serves as a great introduction. It’s got upbeat crowd pleasers like opening track “Leave the Canyon” and more subdued, introspective numbers like “Vikings.” “Fall, Fall, Fall” oozes regrets, while “My Damn Life” celebrates existence. It’s all about balance.

Canyon Songs feels a bit of a throwback, but that’s far from a bad thing. It’s available today. Slow Fades will play a hometown launch show at the Thornbury Theatre on November 25.

Image used with permission from RiSH Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Griefers” – As a Rival

Diamonds are created under pressure. It’s true in the world of science, but it’s often the case in the music industry too. A lesser band might have crumbled when challenged to complete 50 demos in a two-month period. But Melbourne punk rock act As a Rival thrived under the pressure, creating a rich collection of songs that honed their craft and helped them evolve their sound. Only the 12 best made it to their new album Griefers.

Having so many superb songs to select from ensures this album is one of absolute quality. No tracks feel like fillers. Every one is a stand out, from the bold opening track “Broken Compass” to the politically-charged closing number “Divide Us.” The anthemic single “What We Got” remains one of my favourite tracks, but it faces stiff competition from “Atom Bomb” and “Head in the Clouds.” Ask me next week after a few more listens and I might tell you I’m into something else, such is the quality of these tracks. Each one smacks you in the face with its frenetic drumming and big chunky guitar chords. They’re so insightfully written, with lyrics brought to life by the powerful vocals of frontman Pete Cerni.

Griefers is an album you just can’t ignore. It barely takes its foot off the pedal, whisking you along on a wild ride that you’ll want to take again and again. Forget about what you’ve heard about that Difficult Second Album Syndrome. As a Rival make it look easy here.

Griefers is available from your favourite digital retailers today.

Image used with permission from Collision Course

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“To Love You” – Glades

It seems like forever ago that Sydney band Glades burst onto the scene with their track “Drive.” Now two years later they’re showcasing their addictive electronic pop sound on their debut album To Love You.

“Nervous Energy” is the perfect introduction to this collection of songs, with lush electronic layering, powerful and emotional vocals, and a clap-along beat. Glades are so skilled at creating upbeat alt-pop ditties that put a smile on your face, whether they’re spreading positivity in a song like “Do Right” or dissing someone in “Not About You.” Tracks like “80 Miles” and “Neon Buzz” are real charmers, with the rebellious, romantic spirit that will take even the oldest listeners back to those heady days of first love.

Electronic sounds dominate To Love You, but as the songs become more intimate and subdued, so does Glades sound. The final two tracks, “Better Love” and “Through to You” are stripped back and organic, with pianos and gentle acoustic guitars replacing the special effects. They’re powerful reminders that Glades don’t need heavy production to make an impact.

To Love You has been a long time coming, but its release today has been worth waiting for. It’s perfect pop for the new millennium, with a fresh sound anchored by real heart. Glades will play the following shows to celebrate its release.

24 November 2018 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
30 November 2018 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
1 December 2018 – Jive, Adelaide
6 December 2018 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
7 December 2018 – Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia