Category: Album Reviews

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

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“XIII” – Cloves

At just 19 years of age, Melbourne singer-songwriter Cloves has created one of the most impressive debut EPs I’ve heard all year. The title XIII gives nothing away, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I pressed play. However, what I received was some of the most intimate and beautiful songs I’ve heard in some time.

Cloves drew me in instantly with her heartfelt songs about love and loss, all-too fleeting romance and the heartache that lingers. The subject matter isn’t new, but in these songs she brings some freshness to familiar terrain. I love the simplicity of these songs. With just a little acoustic guitar here, the gentle strains of a piano there, Cloves’ beautiful, rich voice and poignant lyrics are at the fore. The single “Frail Love” drew me in instantly, but every song on this four-track EP is superb. It’s seem mean to single any out, because each one is just so special.

Apparently XIII was written with the aid of Lana Del Ray, regular Sia collaborator Justin Parker, and Rich Cooper, who’s worked with Tom Odell and Mumford and Sons, just to name a few. Their influences are apparent; I can hear a lot of similarities between Cloves and Lana Del Ray’s work, yet I feel the songs are a little more accessible than those of the British chanteuse.

XIII is out now. Cloves will support its release with shows supporting British songbird Soak in January.

6 January 2016 – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
8 January 2016 – Newtown Social Club, Sydney

Image used with permission from Positive Feedback

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Wild Love” – Jake Bosci

Queensland pop-rock act Jake Bosci has taken me back to my teens with his new EP Wild Love.

This collection of six songs has me feeling nostalgic for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the tracks tackle themes which tap into teenage me. They speak of big loves that promise to last the test of time, heartache that rips your guts out, warring parents that just make you want to run away from it all. It’s been a long while since I’ve experienced that kind of turmoil firsthand, but you never forget it.

The sound also has me reminiscing. It reminds me of that period in the early noughties where acts like John Mayer, Gavin Degraw, Teddy Geiger, and Ryan Cabrera were just breaking through. Like these artists, Jake Bosci wears his heart on his sleeve and delivers songs with such earnest intent that even when the lyrics get a little cheesy, you believe them. By the time the closing track, the epic “Let Love Go,” rolled around I was hooked.

I do wish Wild Love was a little less produced though. Too often the production overshadows the vocals, almost as if Jake doesn’t trust in his own voice enough. I’d love to hear these songs really stripped back, even in acoustic mode, because they really are solid. The wonderful single “Heartbreak” heads in this direction, but the vocals still aren’t pure enough for my tastes.

Jake Bosci’s EP Wild Love is available on iTunes now.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Eager Hearts” – Hollywood Heartache

It might come as a surprise considering that I run a music blog, but I believe music doesn’t need to be taken too seriously. Of course I love music that gets you in the gut and really moves you to the core. But I can also appreciate music that just feels good to listen to. It might be dismissed as lightweight and overly commercial by other music blogs, but I think there’s certainly a place for music that’s nothing but fun. So while an overly critical music blogger might scoff at the pop-rock stuff Hollywood Heartache has put together for their debut EP Eager Hearts, I can get on board.

With song titles like “High School Sweetheart” and the single “Summer Romance,” you kind of know what you’re getting here. The songs are aimed squarely at a tween to teen audience, predominantly female, who’ll happily sing along to all those “woah ho hos” and “yeah yeahs.” They plumb familiar ground of falling in love and getting your heart broken. These aren’t the kind of songs that are going to change the world. But they’re bound to worm themselves into the hearts of the listening public who can hear their own stories in the tracks.

I think what I love most about Hollywood Heartache is the truth that comes through what they do. On the surface the music they’re making might not seem too dissimilar from what One Direction have been doing, and what the Jonas Brothers did before them, and what countless other groups of cute young things did before that. But this Gold Coast four-piece have written these songs, played their own instruments, and laid it all down in a home studio. Engineering, mixing, and mastering; again it was all them. This is a band not put together and moulded by a corporate music giant, but just a group of guys creating music for the love of it.

Hollywood Heartache might just look back at Eager Hearts and cringe at its sentimentality, but I think it perfectly captures a moment in time that even older cynics can remember. It’s not earth-shattering music, but it shows the bare bones of a band that have the talent to evolve into true musical forces.

Eager Hearts is out now. Hollywood Heartache is supporting its release with the following all ages shows.

12 December 2015 – The Lab, Brisbane
19 December 2015 – Wrangler Studios, Melbourne
20 December 2015 – The Bluebee Room, Adelaide
22 December 2015 – The Bald Faced Stagg, Sydney

Image used with permission from AAA Entertainment

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Psalm IV: Den Sista Sorgen” – Lindsay Phillips

Folk’s one of my favourite genres, but I don’t often hear a voice that brings something new to the mix. Lindsay Phillips does that with songs that he dubs Gothic folk on his new album Psalm IV: Den Sista Sorgen.

I could imagine a king’s servant playing this sort of stuff in a medieval court. There’s a real romance about the songs, which make reference to royalty, honour, and sacrifice. The lyrics are truly poetic. Lindsay’s rich deep voice is also something I haven’t heard from a lot of folk singers. The opening song “Two Princes” drew me in immediately. “Mourning of a Golden Age” also really resonated with me. It painted such a vivid picture in my mind when I heard it.

I do love stripped back songs anchored by the strum of an acoustic guitar. However, as the album wore on I found myself wanting to hear a little bit more, some light and shade, some variation. While the lyrics were so well crafted the melodies started to feel a little samey.

Psalm IV: Den Sista Sorgen is a bit of a snowflake in the modern folk scene. I appreciate its uniqueness, and it shows Lindsay Phillips has certainly got talent. But I think I would have loved it more as an EP. As a full-length album, there’s just not enough variety to keep me interested.

Psalm IV: Den Sista Sorgen is available now from Lindsay Phillips’ Bandcamp page.

Image source: Lindsay Phillips Bandcamp page

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Brisneyland” – MofoIsDead

I’ve gotten into the habit of listening to a little music and blogging while I work on other projects. It’s usually a good way for me to figure out what floats my boat and what’s getting binned, so I can make sure this blog gets updated without my other deadlined work getting neglected. Usually the music works in the background. I might get drawn out for a moment or two, but rarely does it steal focus from the other things I’m doing.

And then there’s Brisneyland, the new EP from Brisbane’s alternative rock act MofoIsDead. This is the sort of recording that refuses to fade into the background or be ignored. It’s anthemic, epic, and loud. Or at least it should be. Listening to it at a decent volume while I attempted to focus on something else just didn’t feel right.

So I gave up trying to do anything else and just listened to the music. I love the way this band plays with light and shade. They can turn it up, and they invariably do. But before the chunky guitar riffs kick in on opening track “Plutocracy,” there’s a delicate violin. When we’re not treated to driving drums and blisteringly fast guitar licks there are moments of quiet reflection, space for the songs to breathe. “Mournography” is a beautiful instrumental number, a tribute to vocalist Paul Galagher’s best friend who passed away during the recording of “Brisneyland.” Paul’s vocals deserve a special mention. He’s got one of the strongest rock voices I’ve heard in some time, and it elevates these already strong songs into the stratosphere.

Brisneyland drops on November 20. Look out for it, because it’s an absolute cracker.

Image used with permission from Collision Course