Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“The Essential Alison MacCallum” – Alison MacCallum

We’re a bit spoiled in the modern musical era. We can head into our nearest JB Hi Fi and find just about any music on CD, whether it’s something from the vault or the latest release. We take for granted that we can find music from our favourite musical acts. So I was surprised to hear that Alison MacCallum, the first Australian female singer to ever have a charting album, has only just had her music available on CD. I’m also slightly ashamed to admit that until now, her music had passed me by.

I’ve righted that wrong though, listening to both CDs that make up The Essential Alison MacCallum this morning. Three years in the making, the album contains just about everything a fan could want, from “I Ain’t Got the Time,” her first chart hit with underground act Freshwater, the Vanda & Young penned “Superman,” and “It’s Time,” the campaign song which helped bring Gough Whitlam to power. There are also some stellar covers, including one of my favourite soul songs, “To Love Somebody” and Ted Mulry’s “Take Me Back.”

Apparently Alison was often compared to Janis Joplin. I can hear that. Few artists can be at one level with their voice, then effortlessly hit notes at the top end with so much heart and passion. But there’s a greater purity to Alison’s voice which is so lovely. I adore Janis’ gravelly delivery, but Alison’s voice somehow manages to be angelic, yet gutsy.

For fans, The Essential Alison MacCallum will be a welcome addition to their collection. I just hope I’m not the only one of the people too young to remember who discovers her music through this long overdue CD release.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

We’ve Come a Long Way, Darling – Luke Daniel Peacock

After being impressed by Luke Daniel Peacock’s single “We’ve Come a Long Way, Darling,” I couldn’t wait to wrap my ears around his album. I was thrilled to find more of the husky vocals and first-class songwriting that delighted me on the lead track.

As I wasn’t aware of the first single “Dreambox,” I found it interesting that the most recent single and title track doesn’t make an appearance to the very end of this album. It meant that for most of the recording I was listening to music that for me felt brand new. Despite this, this collection of songs felt very familiar. Not in a “I’ve heard this all before” way, but in a comfortable, accessible way that’s so appealing. This is an artist who knows what he’s doing, and he does it so well that you’re instantly put at ease.

The opening track “Dreambox” grabbed me from the get go with its hooky guitar-driven melody and relatable lyrics. “Alphabet City” is a stand-out with its stirring instrumentation and gritty, yet hopeful, lyrics. The delicate instrumentation of “Trees” really let the message of this special song shine through. “My Shit” might not have the most eloquent of titles, but it’s a powerful number about loving through the hard times.

There are shades of Bruce Springsteen and Ryan Adams in this album, yet Luke Daniel Peacock’s own original voice rings out so strong. We’ve Come a Long Way, Darling is a remarkable album from one of Australia’s most promising new singer-songwriters.

We’ve Come a Long Way, Darling is available on CD, vinyl, and as a digital download today.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Synthia” – The Jezabels

The Jezabels are back with a brand new album, Synthia. So often bands struggle to maintain the quality of their music over an extended period of time, but there are no such worries with this stellar Australian act. In fact, this third album may just be their best yet.

Ordinarily when I listen to an album I might review I find myself scribbling notes as I listen. However, I was too entranced by the music the first go round to be pulled out of it with observations. I just wanted to let it wash over me.

There’s something so cathartic about listening to songs like the opening track “Stand and Deliver” and the breathtaking “Smile” that build so beautifully to searing crescendos. The Jezabels know how to do epic more convincingly than most acts on the scene.

They’re also a band that knows how to use light and shade so well. I love that driving intensity they can deliver in a song like “My Love is My Disease,” and then how they can leave you hanging on ever moment in quieter periods, like the first half of “Smile.”

“A Message From My Mothers Passed” is one of those songs so beautiful that it stopped me in my tracks. I was similarly enthralled by the exquisite “Flowers in the Attic.” “Stamina,” a song so full of wisdom, ends the album perfectly.

Synthia is likely to be everything fans hope it will be. The darkness and drama of the songs The Jezabels create is like nothing else around. And Hayley Mary’s vocals that seem to cut through so effortlessly are some of the best in the business. This album is sure to cement The Jezabels reputation as one of the best Australian acts making music today.

Synthia hits stores on 12 February.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“City West” – Davey Craddock

Just a few days ago I was raving about Davey Craddock’s single “Peaceful Bay.” I really enjoyed this mellow folk-tinged number, and couldn’t wait to learn more about him on the album’s release. On hearing City West, I’m hooked.

When you hear a single, you’re given just a glimpse of what an artist can do. I knew Davey was an impressive songwriter and that he knew he had a beautiful soft side, but I didn’t really get a picture of who he was. I certainly didn’t expect the attitude and grit of this record, reminiscent of the stuff Ryan Adams produced in his heyday with its easy blend of country and folk influences. And then there’s the joy of discovering tunes featuring some of my favourite instruments, like harmonicas and slide guitars.

Often when I hear an album it becomes clear why the lead single is the single. It usually stands above the other tracks, separating itself with its heart or catchy melodies. But that’s not the case here. In fact, I found myself more captivated by other numbers, like the raucous “Three Sprays” and the plaintive “Number 9.” My favourite track is undoubtedly the gospel-tinged “There Will Be Light,” with its depiction of suburbia and its trappings. “Ayers Rock” is another delight, a gentle and poignant closer.

I liked Davey Craddock’s single, but on hearing his album I discovered there was so much more to him than I’d first realised. You’ll struggle to find better songs than the ones he’s composed here and the passion with which he delivers them is compelling. It might be only January, but I’ll be surprised if an album speaks to me more this year.

City West is released on 5 February. He’ll support its release with the following shows.

26 February 2016 – Major Toms, Kyneton
27 February 2016 – Junkyard, Maitland (FREE)
28 February 2016 – Django Bar, Sydney
5-6 March 2016 – Nannup Festival
12 March 2016 – RADA Studios, Perth
15-17 April 2016 – Fairbridge Festival, Fairbridge Village
29 April – 1 May 2016 – Mount Beauty Festival, Mount Beauty

Image used with permission from Thrillhill Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Adam Brand and the Outlaws” – Adam Brand and the Outlaws

Star-studded country act Adam Brand and The Outlaws deliver a covers album that’s several cuts above the average with their self-titled debut. Adam Brand’s posse includes multiple Golden Guitar winner Drew McAlister, Travis Collins, whose album Wired reached number one on the local country charts, former Baby Animal Matt Cornell, and renowned songwriter Mike Carr. Their collective experience shows on this release.
“Good Year For The Outlaw” is such a great introduction not just to this album, but the band. It’s got country written all over it, and stellar performances across the board, from Adam Brand’s gritty vocals to those gorgeous fiddles. When the band joined their voices and implored me to “Turn it up” I couldn’t help but oblige.

I never imagined I’d hear a country version of Poison’s “Nothing But a Good Time” but it works. It feels like the sort of thing you might hear in a dive bar somewhere in the middle of nowhere, where the drinks flow freely and the crowd is amped. “Fat Bottomed Girls” may be even more fun than it was when Queen released it. Their take on “Bad Case of Loving You” is another absolutely corker.

“Mama Don’t Let Your Babies” is one of the more predictable choices on the album, but it lets the band show their tender side. They might love to party, but there’s a bit more depth here. The poignant “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is a lovely way to close out an album so full of energy and unbridled enthusiasm, a moment of quiet reflection after the party’s over.

Adam Brand and the Outlaws have such strong musical instincts. So many of these song choices didn’t make sense to me on paper, but hearing them I realised I’d judged too quickly. Their debut is damned good fun, a collection of familiar songs reinterpreted in such interesting ways. They’re not dramatically different enough to alienate fans of the originals, but the band’s definitely breathed new life into these classics from the worlds of country and rock music.

Adam Brand and the Outlaws self-titled debut hits stores today. They’re celebrating its release with the following shows all around the country over the coming months.

22 January 2016 – Blazes at West Tamworth Leagues Club, Tamworth
25 January 2016 – Dargo River Inn, Dargo
27 January 2016 – Flying Horse Bar & Brewery, Warrnambool
28 January 2016 – Hallam Hotel, Hallam
29 January 2016 – Gateway Hotel, Geelong
30 January 2016 – Kinross Woolshed Hotel, Thurgoona (FREE)
31 January 2016 – Capital Theatre, Bendigo
3 February 2016 – Muswellbrook RSL Club, Muswellbrook
4 February 2016 – Ettalong Diggers Club, Ettalong Beach
5 February 2016 – Waves Towradgi, Towradgi Beach
6 February 2016 – Toronto Workers Club, Toronto
7 February 2016 – Goulburn Workers Club, Goulburn
11 February 2016 – Caloundra Power Boat Club, Caloundra
12 February 2016 – Kedron Wavell Services Club, Chermside
13 February 2016 – Twin Towns Services Club, Tweed Heads
14 February 2016 – Blue Mountains Hotel, Toowoomba
19 February 2016 – Country Club, Launceston
20 February 2016 – Wrestpoint Entertainment Centre, Hobart
25 February 2016 – Inverell RSM, Inverell
26 February 2016 – Laurieton United Services, Laurieton
27 February 2016 – Moonee Beach Tavern, Moonee Beach
28 February 2016 – Club Forster, Forster
3 March 2016 – Norwood Hotel, Norwood
4 March 2016 – Old Mill Hotel, Hahndorf
5 March 2016 – Mundarring Weir Hotel, Mundarring Weir
6 March 2016 – Ravenswood Hotel, Ravenswood
17 March 2016 – Dubbo RSL, Dubbo
18 March 2016 – Club Mudgee, Mudgee
19 March 2016 – Rooty Hill RSL, Rooty Hill

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Jess & Matt” – Jess & Matt

While I’m an avid viewer of The X Factor, I don’t think I’ve ever bothered to listen to any of the winner’s albums. They typically have little more than the performances on the show recut, and while I’ve enjoyed those at the time, I’ve rarely been in a hurry to hear them again. But this year we had Jess & Matt, an act that is so special that when I was sent a streaming copy of their self-titled debut album, I couldn’t wait to hit play.

Yes, this largely follows the same formula of other post-X Factor releases. We get the act in a studio to recreate what they did in the show just in time for a Christmas release. But the creativity of Matt & Jess, and mentor Guy Sebastian, makes this a little more than just an album of covers. Anyone who’s seen the show will know how under Guy’s guidance, the duo put their stamp on classic songs like “Dancing in the Dark,” “Heart of Glass,” and “You’re the One That I Want,” as well as newer tracks like “Lay Me Down” and “Do You Remember.”

The visuals were significant component of those performances, whether it was watching elaborate staging from Square Division or simply the couple gazing into one another’s eyes. That’s gone when you listen to the album, but nothing can take away the way these two voices harmonise so beautifully. Separately they’re already exceptional, but together, sublime. When we first heard the single “Nothing Matters” my husband and I felt Jess & Matt deserved a better song, and it still stands out as the weakest track on this album. But to sweeten the deal there’s also exceptional covers of two songs not performed on the show “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” and “Sister Golden Hair.”

Given that this is the post-X Factor release, it’s probably only going to reach the ears of those who only admired Jess & Matt on the show. But it deserves to be heard much more widely than that. I imagine everyone from the cool kids who listen to acoustic covers on Spotify to my parents really digging what Jess & Matt do. I urge you to take a chance on this album, because it’s much more than simply a snapshot of time spent on a reality TV show.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“December” – Reigan

I always thought Reigan Derry was one of the more interesting acts on X Factor, but I felt she got pushed into a pop diva direction. While she pulled it off, it was in her quieter performances that I was really moved. It’s wonderful to hear her in that sort of introspective mode here with her new EP, December.

This isn’t the Christmas EP that you put on if you want a big family singalong. It’s delicate and introspective. It’s for the quiet moments of reflection that often come at this time of year, as we face saying goodbye to one year and hello to the possibilities of the next.

Reigan’s taken the bare bones of Christmas carols and traditional songs of worship and reinterpreted them beautifully, giving them new names and changing a word here or there to make them more modern. Her intimate take on “Amazing Grace,” simply called “Grace” is truly stunning. “We Three Kings” becomes “Star of Wonder,” a haunting, ethereal number. I must admit, I’m not familiar with the Lutheran carol “O Come O Come Emmanuel,” but the Middle Eastern vibe of her version, called “Rejoice,” is so musically interesting and moving. “Holly,” a version of “Deck the Halls,” is December’s lightest moment. It brings the celebratory feel that most of us associate with Christmas to the EP. With her strumming her acoustic guitar and friends lending their vocals to the chorus, it feels like a family jam at Reigan’s house.

December isn’t your traditional Christmas recording, but I think that’s a good thing. There are so many Christmas recordings delivered schmaltz and sentimentality if that’s what you want. This is a recording that showcases a real artist delivering so much more than predictable Christmas covers.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Return to the Lower Fourth Dimension” – Them Sharks

We’re only a couple of weeks into summer, but I might have already found my favourite album for this season. The unique blend of reggae, punk, and hip hop showcased by Them Sharks in their new album Return to the Lower Fourth Dimension is the ideal soundtrack for steamy summer days enjoyed with a beer in hand. It grabbed me from the first high energetic track “5am Fuzz” and didn’t let go.

You might remember me writing about the single “Tsoukalos” a few weeks ago. It’s sounding just as fresh now, and remains one of the album’s standouts. I also love the positive vibe of “All I Want.” It’s another of those tracks I keep coming back to because it just feels so good.

I might be missing the point, but I couldn’t see what “Democracy Manifest” and its penis talk really add to the album. It all felt a little puerile, and sandwiched in the middle of the album it breaks up its flow. Thankfully with the next track “Danger Zone” we were back on track.

“Haleiwa” transports the listener to a beautiful beach, taking us out of our everyday and putting us in a more relaxed frame of mind. Its big chorus makes sure the song never feels sleepy though. This is reggae with bite, something Them Sharks do oh so well.

I imagine the closing track “Hive Mind” would go off in the live arena, with its frenetic drums and raucous singalong chorus. It’s certainly the most intense track of the album, and it really sends Return to the Lower Fourth Dimension out with a bang. The recording does a pretty good job of capturing its energy, but it does hint at another level of excitement.

Return to the Lower Fourth Dimension is a really funky release from Them Sharks. It’s officially released on December 18, when they’ll launch it with a show for hometown fans at Perth’s Amplifier Bar.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“The Christmas Album Deluxe Edition” – Human Nature

As a teen, I was completely besotted with Human Nature. They were my boy band of choice; I covered my wardrobe doors with their posters and spent many hours waiting at venues just so I could secure my place in the front row. But as with so many teenage love affairs, my enthusiasm for Human Nature fizzled. They’ll always have a soft spot in my heart, but I can barely remember the last CD I bought or show I saw. In fact, while their Christmas album came out in 2013, I hadn’t heard it until they rereleased it this year with a few bonus tracks.

It makes a lot of sense for Human Nature to release a Christmas album. They’ve played more carols shows than I can count and their reworkings of the seasonal classics always please the crowds. However, I wasn’t so pleased with every track on this album. Human Nature’s always been a little cheesy, and Christmas is definitely a time when you shouldn’t take yourself too seriously, but some of the songs, including their covers of “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” and “Let it Snow,” a collaboration with Delta Goodrem, felt too corny for my tastes.

But there’s no denying that these guys have some of the best voices in the business. Individually, they’re so strong, but when they harmonise it’s magic. One Direction wish they could sing like these guys can. While some of the Motown-esque arrangements feel a little stale, I absolutely loved the mash-up of “Silent Night” and “O Holy Night” and their take on Donnie Hathaway’s “This Christmas.” I also appreciated hearing them really let loose on the rocking “Run Run Rudolph.” “Amazing Grace,” with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, is truly breathtaking. The purity of “Mary’s Boy Child,” delivered completely acapella, is also really special.

Human Nature have built their recent success on recording and performing covers, and that’s because they do it so well. With such voices, it’s unsurprising that their reinterpretations are always solid. Sometimes they’re even outstanding. But I can’t help thinking that if they were still writing and recording their own original music they might have delivered a Christmas album that feels a bit more current. However, if there’s ever a time for a nostalgic sound, I suppose it’s the festive season.

The Christmas Album Deluxe Edition by Human Nature is in stores now.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Harvey’s Bar … The Backyard Sessions” – Adam Harvey

In this PC world we live in, we don’t hear a lot of drinking songs. But Adam Harvey has bucked the trend with his brand new album Harvey’s Bar … The Backyard Sessions. This album celebrates everything that’s great about getting together with friends and family members and knocking back a few cold ones.

Original songs like “Harvey’s Backyard Bay,” “Alcoholaday,” and “Yeah I Like Beer” are real party starters. His take on “The Nips Are Getting Bigger” was a little sleepy for my tastes, but it suited the relaxed feel of this recording. It’s not all fun and games though. Moving numbers like “Misery and Gin” and “Bartender Blues,” a duet with Lyn Bowtell, remind us of the potential dangers of the bottle.

There’s a real energy about this recording, no doubt because Adam recorded it in his backyard in Bateau Bay, on the Central Coast, a world away from those big city studios. As a fellow Coastie I know how time in this part of the country affects your mind set, putting you at ease and making you feel more relaxed. Add alcohol and it’s always going to be a good time. I really enjoyed listening to Adam banter with his mates in between the recordings; it makes hearing the album feel like you’ve got an invite to an awesome party.

I’ve never been much of a country music fan, but Adam Harvey’s won me over with his rich baritone and sense of celebration here. It might not be your typical Christmas album, but I reckon Harvey’s Bar … The Backyard Sessions is the perfect soundtrack for those parties coming up.

Harvey’s Bar … The Backyard Sessions is out now. Adam will support the album’s release with the following shows.

16 & 22 January 2016 – West Tamworth Leagues Club, Tamworth
3 March 2016 – Hallam Hotel, Hallam
4 March 2016 – York on Lilydale, Mt Evelyn
5 March 2016 – The Gateway Hotel, Corio
11 March 2016 – Windsor RSL Club, Windsor
13 March 2016 – The Oaks Hotel, Albion Park
17 March 2016 – Bairnsdale RSL Club, Bairnsdale
18 March 2016 – Italian Australian Sports Club, Morwell
19 March 2016 – Terang Country Music Festival, Terang
20 March 2016 – Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club, Wonthaggi
29 April 2016 – Lizotte’s, Newcastle
30 April 2016 – Panorama Lounge, Gosford
12 May 2016 – Bathurst RSL, Bathurst
13 May 2016 – Forbes Services Memorial Club, Forbes
14 May 2016 – Dubbo RSL, Dubbo
26 May 2016 – Inverell RSM Club, Inverell
27 May 2016 – City Golf Club, Toowoomba
28 May 2016 – Kedron Wavell Services Club, Chermside
17 June 2016 – Revesby Workers Club, Revesby
18 June 2016 – Halekulani Bowling Club, Budgewoi
23 June 2016 – The Woombye Pub, Woombye
24 June 2016 – Maryborough Sports Club, Maryborough
25 June 2016 – Brothers Sports Club, Bundaberg
26 June 2016 – The Lionleigh, Rockhampton
1 July 2016 – Dalrymple Hotel, Garbutt
2 July 2016 – Mareeba RSL, Mareeba
3 July 2016 – Herbert River RSL, Herbert River
5 July 2016 – Big Red Bash, Birdsville
15 July 2016 – South West Rocks Country Club, South West Rocks
16 July 2016 – South Grafton Ex Servicemen’s Club, South Grafton

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia