Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“All Your Devotion” – Kav Temperley

If Kav Temperley felt any nerves going solo, they don’t show. His first album without Eskimo Joe, All Your Devotion, is an accomplished work that hits all the right musical and emotional notes.

Kav hasn’t been afraid to take risks here. It’s definitely not a soundalike album that could have come from the Eskimo Joe catalogue. It’s gentler, more delicate, with folkier influences and greater pop leanings. Keeping the instrumentation small really lets us hone in on those lyrics which are so very good. Perhaps it’s the act of creating a solo album that’s let Kav craft songs that come from a very personal place, that don’t need to speak for the band. Perhaps it’s simply the circumstances. An album that comes following the breakdown of a marriage, and even the separation from a band, should be raw and revealing. And it is.

While Kav takes a different direction with All Your Devotion, this may be one of his most accessible works to date. The single, “Pollyanna” is such a strong song that deserves serious airplay. But really I could see most of these songs sitting comfortably on indie and commercial playlists. There are no filler tracks here. Opening track “Queen of My Heart” is a proper love song, delivered with real heart and without a hint of schmaltz. “Surrender” speaks so eloquently about giving yourself over completely to a new relationship. “Please Distract Me,” a plaintive plea to a new lover, might be my favourite song from the album. Although, it has stiff competition from “What Is It Worth,” a beautiful ballad that delivers an emotional sucker punch. The festive “Christmas Lights” seems a little out of place on a September release, but it’s a sweet song nonetheless.

All Your Devotion felt good the moment I listened to it, but with every subsequent spin I think I fall a little more in love with it. I catch a lyric or a melody that I missed, and my appreciation deepens. Make sure you take a listen when it gets a digital and vinyl release today. Hear it live at the following shows.

5 October 2018 – The Milk Factory, Brisbane
6 October 2018 – Villa Noosa Hotel, Sunshine Coast
7 October 2018 – Public Bar @ Coolangatta Hotel, Gold Coast (FREE)
11 October 2018 – Grace Emily, Adelaide
12 October 2018 – Sooki Lounge, Belgrave
13 October 2018 – The Toff in Town, Melbourne
19 October 2018 – Leadbelly, Sydney
20 October 2018 – Lizotte’s, Newcastle
27 October 2018 – Mojos, Fremantle
2 November 2018 – River Hotel, Margaret River
3 November 2018 – Prince of Wales, Bunbury

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“On The Corner Where You Live” – The Paper Kites

The Paper Kites may be one of the most prolific acts in the country. Mere months after the release of On the Train Ride Home, the Melbourne band have dropped a brand new album, On the Corner Where You Live. The band explains this is a sort of companion piece, yet both albums are so different. The first was more delicate and laidback folk, while this collection of midtempo indie-pop gems has a real fire in its belly.

It’s a concept album of sorts, conceived as a series of vignettes telling the stories of people living in a New York City apartment that faced the band’s hotel.

“You could see all these windows lighting up and people getting home from their nights out,” recounted Paper Kites frontman Sam Bentley. “We just sat there and watched them. It was fascinating. It was living art.”

It’s easy to forget the concept though and imagine the band is sharing its own stories, because they’re delivered with such sincerity. But every now and then there’s a track like “Midtown Waitress,” with lyrics addressing such specific circumstances, that reminds you of this album’s inspiration.

On the Corner Where You Live’s opening instrumental’s jazzy saxophone and piano recall film noir, but that gives way to a more ‘80s retro feel with “Give Me Your Fire, Give Me Your Rain.” It’s one of the album’s strongest tracks, a powerful track, full of emotion and yearning. It’s a natural predecessor to the single “Deeper Burn,” a song which is similarly passionate and longing.

Christina Lacy takes lead vocals on “Mess We Made,” making me wonder why she hasn’t grabbed the microphone sooner. Perhaps it’s only fitting here though, where we’re meant to hear songs from different perspectives. What a beautiful voice she has, with such nuance to it. The poignant song takes the album to a different place, reminding us of the real struggles of relationships.

“Flashes” is perhaps the closest to a song that could have appeared on On the Train Ride Home. It’s subtle, with little more than an acoustic guitar keeping time and gentle vocals. Sitting almost in the middle of the album, it gives us a moment to catch our breath, the calm eye of an emotional storm.

The back-end of On The Corner Where You Live is a little more subdued than the front. Perhaps we’re winding down after a wild night in the Big Apple. The title track feels like a retro classic, with its reassuring, romantic lyrics and hooks. I can just imagine cranking this one up and hitting the highway. “When It Hurts You” is another stellar song, a dreamy exploration of empathy during the hard times that contrasts so beautifully with the simple, stripped-back piano musings of “Does It Every Cross Your Mind.”

While I’d slip On the Train Ride Home on as background music, On the Corner Where You Live has the sort of songs that have me singing along, tapping my feet, bobbing my head, really engaging. It’s full of hooks and lyrics that cut to the heart. Its tracks might tell stories of other people, but I found a real connection in them.

On the Corner Where You Live is out now.

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Hold Yourself Down” – Dear Willow

Sunshine Coast artist Dear Willow creates music with a folky core and rock edge. In just four tracks, her EP Hold Yourself Down makes a big impression.

Her stunning lyrics are what made the biggest impression on me. They’re laced with emotion, confessional and clever. The songs feel a little like diary entries come to life. Opening track “Hold” is a show of strength, of gaining control of a relationship that’s veering off the rails. Current single “I Was Young” is a powerful rumination on personal growth and the power of coming into your own. “The City” is a delicate observation about the anonymity of urban life. “North of Winter” might be my favourite song on the album, a poetic reflection on a lost love.

As I listened to Dear Willow’s songs, I found myself thinking of singer-songwriters I loved growing up like Jann Arden and Lisa Loeb. Just like those women who captured my heart in those difficult teenage years, what Dear Willow does isn’t flashy or particularly complex. But there’s nothing wrong with music that’s straightforward in delivery when it moves your soul. Nothing wrong with it at all.

Hold Yourself Down is out now. Dear Willow will play a series of shows in her home state to support its release.

20 September 2018 – Tomcat, Brisbane
5 October 2018 – Solbar, Sunshine Coast
6 October 2018 – The Spring Soirée, Samford
19 October 2018 – Solbar, Sunshine Coast

Image used with permission from Firestarter Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Death & Taxes” – Gareth Leach

Gareth Leach hails from Echuca, but you wouldn’t know it listening to his new album Death & Taxes. His music feels like it comes from America’s Wild West. It’s country that veers to the left of centre, with a darkness that permeates every track.

The title track, “Death & Taxes,” sets the scene, with his lyrics about rubbing shoulders with the devil and spending time in a bottle. This is outlaw music, gritty, bluesy, deliciously rough and raw. The single “Turn Back Jimmy Creek” is a rollicking ode to the life of a travelling musician.

While the first two songs feel almost like Gareth is playing a role, “Better or Worse?” feels like it comes from a really personal place. Its emotional delivery leaves a big impression. It marks an emotional turning point for the album, with the following tracks like “Drink You Goodnight” and the unsettlingly nostalgic “Wayward Son” strip away the bravado. On the final track, “Raise Up Our Guns,” so much is stripped away that we’re left with just the bare bones, Gareth’s voice and an acoustic guitar. It’s simple but so effective. I enjoyed the album’s early tracks, but the back end is where stuff really gets interesting.

While Gareth’s voice and incredible songs are front and centre, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the extraordinary talents featured on this album. From the fantastic Gretta Ziller on backing vocals to Anthony McCormack on banjo and Shane Reilly on the pedal steel guitar, they help create the distinctive sound that sets this album apart.

At just eight tracks and a run-time of not even half an hour, my only complaint would be that Death & Taxes feels too short. But it’s a case of quality over quantity here folks. There’s something to be said for an artist that leaves you wanting more.

Death & Taxes is out now.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Coming Home” – James Van Cooper

Sydney seems an unlikely breeding ground for Australia’s next alt-country star. In fact, James Van Cooper spent his formative years obsessing over hard rocking hairbands like Motley Crue and LA Guns. However, once he discovered his country-rock leanings, there was no looking back. He made a pilgrimage to Tamworth, where he connected with Aussie country royalty Bill Chambers, before heading for Nashville. His debut album Coming Home shows he’s soaked up some valuable lessons about country and its associated genres while developing a sound all his own.

The single “Passing Through” is the perfect opener for this album, an upbeat slice of country-rock that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. I’m a sucker for a country duet, and “Come Home” with Jaime Wyatt hits all the right notes for me. His roughened voice and her purer one contrast and complement one another so beautifully. The playful “Midnight Love” captures a moment in time so perfectly. “Goodbye My Friends” is rollicking good fun. “Lights Don’t Shine” has such a simple melody elevated by some of the album’s best lyrics. “Kew EQ” is probably the album’s simplest track. It’s very stripped back, with just an acoustic guitar accompanying James’ voice. But there’s something lovely about leaving us with that impression, of an artist simply standing on his own, letting his raw talent speak for itself.

Coming Home showcases the gifts of this talented young Aussie. James Van Cooper builds his tunes on a solid foundation of quality songwriting, real guitar prowess, and earthy vocals. He wears his influences on his sleeve, with tracks that play around with bluegrass, Americana, and traditional country. However, he’s bringing something fresh to the table. This album has the kind of crossover appeal you’ll find in works by Phillip Phillips, Jason Isbell, and Ryan Adams.

Coming Home drops today. James Van Cooper will celebrate its release with the following shows, supported by Axle Whitehead.

14 September 2018 – SLYFOX, Enmore (Album Launch)
15 September 2018 – Heritage Hotel, Bulli
22 September 2018 – Tamworth Hotel, Tamworth
5 October 2018 – Spotted Mallard, Brunswick
19 October 2018 – The Brass Monkey, Cronulla
27 October 2018 – The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Sundown” – DIET.

DIET. might be one of our own, but there’s a decidedly British feel to their sophomore EP Sundown. It seems the Victorian five-piece, which formed in a ramshackle share house at the end of the Northern line of London’s Tube, hasn’t totally shaken off the influence of the Mother Country. That’s a very good thing.

There’s a confidence in the way the British bands play that imbues every track on Sundown. DIET. might play the pub circuit, but they’re got a great stadium rock sound. Surely graduating to those big venues is only a matter of time.

This EP had me punching my fist in the air in time with the drum beat from the opening track “Don’t Need It.” DIET. doesn’t take its foot off the accelerator for “Game Plan.” In fact, it keeps its foot firmly planted to the floor as we’re introduced to one stellar track after another.

The shimmery synths have a nostalgic feel that calls to mind The Cure and Tears for Fears. The electric guitars provide the rock edge. The powerful vocals from Ben O’Loughlin are so compelling.
They might not book stadiums yet, but if DIET. continues creating such accomplished music it’s only a matter of time. Until then, catch them at the following venues celebrating Sundown’s recent release.

4 September 2018 – Woolly Mammoth, Fortitude Valley (Official BIGSOUND Showcase)
5 September 2018 – GYROstream’s Hump Day Happy Hour @ The Valley Drive In, Fortitude Valley (BIGSOUND)
6 September 2018 – The Brightside, Fortitude Valley (Official BIGSOUND Showcase)
27 September 2018 – Evelyn Hotel, Melbourne
28 September 2018 – ‘Hills City’ at Corner Hotel Carpark, Melbourne
30 December 2018 – 1 January 2019 – NYE on the Hill, Gippsland

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Gotcha Covered” – The Screaming Jets

You might recall me getting excited about the release of The Screaming Jets’ new album Gotcha Covered. As a kid growing up in Newcastle, these guys were heroes to me. The track listing of Aussie rock classics was inspired, radio-friendly but full of curveballs. You might wonder why, since it’s been out for a couple of weeks now, I haven’t put down my thoughts until this moment. The simple answer is, I’ve been having too much fun listening to it.

All the Jets hallmarks are here: the driving drums, the chunky guitars, Dave Gleeson’s unmistakeable vocals. Add in an impressive collection of songs and you’ve got all the right ingredients for your next barbecue soundtrack.

It bounds out of the gate with a gritty, frenetic take on The Easybeats’ “Wedding Ring.” I love the extra dirt The Jets put on this one. Their take on Razor’s Edge might be my favourite track on an outstanding album. I’d forgotten how much I love this song; their punchy version was a great reminder. But then there’s “Overkill,” perhaps controversially my favourite Men at Work song, given such a great treatment. And then there’s “Errol,” a wonderful take on the Oz Crawl classic. The more I think about it, singling out just one track seems cruel.

“Shadow Boxer” was always going to be a natural fit for the band fronted by The Angels’ current lead singer. It works so well. “The Right Time” is another song which feels like it was made for the Newcastle rockers. The Jets even have a way of making songs I’ve never liked, like the Radiators’ questionable classic “Head” endearing!

Playing on the sacred ground here has some challenges. Risks are essential, but they don’t all pay off in my opinion. While I appreciate the intent of the swampy, bluesy “Darling It Hurts,” slowing down the tempo makes this incredible Paul Kelly track feel a little laboured. But then The Jets take a chance on an epic 14-minute take on “Guitar Band” to close the album, and you’re glad they did.

Gotcha Covered will make the perfect Father’s Day gift for your old man. Just don’t be surprised when you want a copy for yourself too.

The Screaming Jets are currently touring the nation with Boom Crash Opera. Here are all the remaining dates.

17 August 2018 – Kingsford Juniors, Sydney
18 August 2018 – Rooty Hill RSL, Rooty Hill
24 August 2018 – Parkwood Tavern, Gold Coast
25 August 2018 – Hamilton Hotel, Brisbane
31 August & 1 September 2018 – The Gov, Adelaide
7 September 2018 – Ravenswood Hotel, Ravenswood
8 September 2018 – Charles Hotel, Perth
14 September 2018 – Miranda Hotel, Sydney
15 September 2018 – Revesby Workers, Sydney

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Love Monster” – Amy Shark

Amy Shark’s Love Monster may be the most anticipated Aussie album of the year. Every single she released quickly climbed the ARIA charts, attracting airplay and accolades along the way. Those songs set the bar so high, I wondered whether her debut LP could possibly match my expectations. But the Gold Coast singer-songwriter delivers here.

Love Monster was destined to be one of the biggest releases of the year, but its sound is refreshingly small and intimate. While Amy plays with beats and electronic sounds, she doesn’t overdo it. That ensures we can really hone in on the lyrics, which is where Love Monster really excels. The songs feel like diary entries, intimate confessions about relationships and moments in time that she’s sharing with us. Coupled with Amy’s honest vocal delivery, these songs move you. And isn’t that really the most important thing?

Every track here is so, so good. I didn’t quite expect that. When singles shine so brightly you expect the album they’re lifted from to contain some fillers. But I can honestly say that I love every track on Love Monster. I ordinarily pick out standouts and wax lyrical about them, but singling songs out would seem unfair to the ones I didn’t mention. I will say that I was pleasantly surprised by “Psycho,” the song she recorded with Mark Hoppus of Blink-182. I can hear the Blink-182 influence, but it’s restrained in this delicate number. I’ve always been a sucker for a great duet, and this is a great duet.

Love Monster is a beautiful album, raw, real, and relatable. It’s in stores and all your favourite digital retailers now. She’s touring almost everywhere over the coming months. Here are all the dates you need!

3 August 2018 – Osheaga, Montreal
4 August 2018 – Lollapalooza, Chicago
24 August 2018 – HQ, Adelaide (SOLD OUT)
25 August 2018 – Metropolis, Fremantle (SOLD OUT)
30 & 31 August 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
1 & 2 September 2018 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney (Limited tickets for 2nd)
6 & 7 September 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane (Limited tickets for 6th)
8 September 2018 – Nightquarter, Gold Coast
13 September 2018 – Powerstation, Auckland
14 September 2018 – Foundry, Christchurch
15 September 2018 – Hunter Lounge, Wellington
21 September 2018 – Life is Beautiful, Las Vegas
23 September 2018 – Wonder Ballroom, Portland
24 September 2018 – Neptune, Seattle
25 September 2018 – Imperial, Vancouver
26 September 2018 – Capital Ballroom, Victoria
28 September 2018 – Great American Music Hall, San Francisco
1 October 2018 – House of Blues, San Diego
2 October 2018 – El Rey, Los Angeles
5 October 2018 – Amsterdam Bar & Hall, St. Paul
8 October 2018 – Paradise Rock Club, Boston
10 October 2018 – Underground Arts, Philadelphia
12 October 2018 – Irving Plaza, New York
13 October 2018 – Danforth Music Hall, Toronto
3 November 2018 – This That Festival, Newcastle
16 January 2019 – Knust, Hamburg
17 January 2019 – Festsaal Kreuzberg, Berlin
19 January 2019 – Strom, Munich
20 January 2019 – Plaza, Zurich
21 January 2019 – Nachtleben, Frankfurt
23 January 2019 – Luxor, Cologne
24 January 2019 – Badaboum, Paris
25 January 2019 – Paradiso, Amsterdam
27 January 2019 – Rotonde Botanique, Brussels
29 January 2019 – O2 Institute 3, Birmingham
30 January 2019 – Heaven, London
1 February 2019 – Gorilla, Manchester

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Two Sides” – Legs Electric

Legs Electric makes big, ballsy rock in the tradition of Rose Tattoo and Led Zeppelin. It’s a space we don’t often see women occupying, but their music is a welcome addition to the genre. The Perth act’s new five-track EP Two Sides perfectly showcases their hard-hitting signature sound.

“Dark Paradise” shows these women mean business. This retro number doesn’t take a step backwards or a foot off the throttle. I love its big chunky guitar chords and powerful vocals. “Wanna Riot” takes us from the ’70s to the ’80s, with rebellious lyrics and unbridled passion. It’ll have you punching your fists in the air in no time. There’s more of that rebellion with every biting lyrics of “Shine Right Through.” The drums and bass anchor this track which builds to a crescendo of wailing guitars and vocals. “Strange Addiction” is perhaps the simplest song on the EP. It doesn’t have a lot in terms of lyrics content, but it makes up for that with its driving sound which will have you banging your head in time to the driving beat. “Kingdom” makes a strong final statement. There’s more attitude, great harmonies, and those big chunky guitars that are Legs Electric’s trademarks.

If I have any criticism it’s that Two Sides is a little one-note. There isn’t a lot of light and shade. Legs Electric’s EP rocks hard from start to finish. However, if you’re a fan of unflinching rock music, you’re not going to mind that one bit.

Two Sides is available now from all your favourite digital outlets. Legs Electric are currently playing shows around the country to support its release. See them at the following venues.

27 July 2018 – Rad Bar, Wollongong
28 July 2018 – Last Chance Rock & Roll Bar, Melbourne
29 July 2018 – Whole Lotta Love Bar, Brunswick East

Image used with permission from Firestarter Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Songs From The Village” – Jess + Matt

The X Factor Australia is becoming a distant memory and I’ve forgotten most of the acts that graced its stage over the years. But not Jess + Matt, who charmed me with their beautiful harmonies, their folky sound, and the romance of their real-life relationship. Something special happens when people in love make music together and that goes double when they’ve got some serious music taste. Over the years they’ve released covers and originals, which didn’t all hit the mark for me. Songs From The Village is the album I’ve been waiting for them to make, a celebration of classic folk music.

This album starts so strong with a jubilant version of “The Times They Are A-Changing.” Their take on “The Boxer,” the second track is another stunner. It builds to an epic vocal crescendo that makes your heart soar. The danger with bringing us so many folk songs though is that the music can become background. It’s admittedly a very gentle record, and there are a few slow spots. However, whenever it starts getting a bit sleepy, Jess + Matt deliver a knockout. Their rollicking version of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” hits all the right notes. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is so special. Jess + Matt are at their best when they get to play off against one another as they do here. It’s so beautiful and believable. Their version of “Both Sides Now” is exquisite.

Jess + Matt are such talented vocalists with an innate musical sensibility. They clearly have fantastic music taste and they know what will work well for their voices. They’re also such natural storytellers, ensuring their takes on songs from Simon and Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, and other American folk pioneers don’t feel like pale imitations. I had high expectations for this release. While I wasn’t wowed by every song, there’s plenty here to get excited about.

Songs From The Village is in stores now. Follow Jess + Matt on Facebook to learn about their pop-up appearances promoting the album.