Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Good Lovin’" – David Campbell

I received David Campbell’s Good Lovin’ as a Christmas present and I haven’t been able to prise it from my stereo since. I was a big fan of David’s “Swing Sessions” albums, and wondered where he’d take us next. This nostalgic journey to the 1960s was a little unexpected, but it all makes sense.

It’s a real departure from the standards he tackled in the past, but it’s not so far removed that he risks alienating his ever faithful audience. These songs will resonate with the mums and dads who remember the first time they heard them, while David’s younger fans might learn a thing or two about musical history. David’s obviously a fan of the songs he covers and he stays true to the originals, yet the warmth of David’s voice ensures no song ever feels like a carbon copy.

A duet with his own dad, the living legend Jimmy Barnes, on “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” is an obvious standout. But I can’t resist dancing around my loungeroom to “Now That I’ve Found You” and “Jackie Wilson Said.”

Good Lovin’ is fun, pure and simple. Every song is delivered with conviction and a healthy dose of charisma. Receiving it in my stocking has only made me hungrier for that tour in March!

Image source: David Campbell website

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Curiouser" – Kate Miller-Heidke

Kate Miller-Heidke is one of the most intriguing Australian musicians, so it makes sense that her second album is titled Curiouser.

It’s an eclectic collection of songs, from the sunny pop opener “The One Thing I Know” to the moving ballad “The Last Day on Earth.” The tunes might sound markedly different, but they’re unified by Kate’s clever lyrics and sense of fun.

This is a more commercial affair than Kate’s debut Little Eve, and initially that may disappoint some fans. Her operatic trills are scaled back, and songs like the single “Can’t Shake It” will sound right at home on sandwiched between Britney and Beyonce on the radio. But Kate cleverly stays just left of the mainstream, no matter how close to it she veers. These songs are more accessible to the masses, but they’re still highly original.

The tunes all clock in at around three minutes, helping the disc move at a frantic pace. I needed to play it through three times just to absorb it all, particularly those cheeky lyrics. I think every girl will relate to the sentiments in “God’s Gift to Women” and “I Like You Better When You’re Not Around”!

Kate Miller-Heidke has gone from strength to strength with Curiouser, a complex album that gets richer with every listen. I always knew she was brilliant, but this might just be the CD that convinces the rest of Australia. Take a look at this video for a taste of the album!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Night & Day" – mrben

Sydney rockers mrben will release their debut album Night & Day later this month, but I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek.

The opening track, “Memory,” draws you in with its smouldering verses and blistering chorus. Things slow down a little on “One Man,” but while it’s somewhat calmer the song is certainly no less intense. Ben Wever’s emotive vocals see to that. “When You’re Gone” is sure to become a live favourite with its crunchy guitars and hook-laden lyrics.

This album has been four years in the making, and it shows. Mrben has laid down 11 solid songs that beg to be played again and again. The sound is more polished than most debuts. Clearly those years playing Sydney venues like the Gaelic Club, the Cat & Fiddle, and the Bridge Hotel have served the lads well.

Singer-songwriter Ben Wever enjoys exploring the darker side of the human experience, but the energy behind the songs ensures they never get too gloomy. His raspy vocals wrap around his lyrics with genuine conviction. This is clearly a man who’s really lived. We’ve seen drummer Jeff de Araugo as part of Sarah Blasko’s band, but this meatier material allows him to really let loose. Bassist Leighton Holloway completes the trio, unifying the rich sound.

Sydneysiders can catch mrben launching Night & Day at the Annandale Hotel on Wednesday 19 November.

Image source: mrben website

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lenka – Lenka

I recently told you how I am in love with Lenka’s new single, “The Show.” But I couldn’t stop there. I needed to know whether this girl was the next big thing, or a one-song sensation. After giving her self-titled solo album a thorough listen, I’m predicting big things from this Aussie ex-pat.

If you love “The Show,” chances are you’re going to love this recording. This hot single gives a great indication of what you’re in for with this recording. Lenka’s sugary sweet vocals are the perfect match for her light, breezy melodies. This is an album of joy, a whimsical collection of songs which is instantly accessible.

That’s not to suggest that Lenka is all sunshine and rainbows. Songs like “Anything I’m Not” and “Trouble Is a Friend” aren’t afraid to explore the darker side of life. But Lenka’s ethereal vocals and indie pop sensibilities ensure the record never gets bogged down by negativity.

The result is the perfect antidote for whatever ails you. It’s an album full of colour and sweetness, which gets richer and more satisfying with every listen.

Image source: Amazon

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Imaginary Things" – Delamare

Some music is so raw with emotion, it seems to bleed from your speakers. Some music is politically charged and written to change the world, or at least the thinking of one listener. And some music is just pure unadulterated fun.

Imaginary Things, the debut EP from Adelaide quintet Delamare, falls into the latter category. It’s not particularly deep or important, but it’s just so joyful you can’t help but smile when you hear it.

This makes the music of Delamare somewhat of a guilty pleasure, like lollies. I tend to expect my music to be a little meatier and more satisfying than this, yet for some reason I keep on listening. In a world where indie pop outfits like Good Charlotte, Fall Out Boy, and Simple Plan dominate the charts, there’s nothing revolutionary about this music. The lyrics are basic at best and cringeworthy at worst. The third track, “Camera Shy Girl” made me laugh out loud with its cheesy lines.

Yet funnily enough, somehow it all works. The vocal harmonies are brilliant and the melodies are addictive. Those North American punk-popsters I mentioned grate on me when I hear them on the radio, yet I happily listened to all five Delamare songs. I even went back for second and third helpings.

Yes Imaginary Things has flaws, but so what? I loved it. If I were a teenage girl watching these five good-looking lads belting out these songs, I imagine I’d fall even harder! This recording isn’t going to change the world, or even your outlook. But it might just brighten your day!

Image source: Delamare MySpace

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Parx-e – A Compilation of Independent Music

I love a good compilation album. The problem is, there aren’t a lot of those around. Sure you can buy those mindless discs of the latest Top 40 music, but aren’t we all sick of those songs anyway? Then there are those discs which fit a theme, but tend to have all the same songs you own on other albums anyway.

So I was pretty excited when a new compilation album that didn’t fit the mould crossed my desk. Parx-e is a strange name for what turns out to be a brilliant disc. It features some of the best independent music I’ve heard in a long while.

You probably haven’t heard of any of the artists featured here, but that’s part of the fun. They come from all corners of the globe, united by their talent and amazing songs. The tunes are as diverse as the musicians’ backgrounds, which for a music lover like me is really appealing.

I was particularly floored by the American girls it introduced me to. Amanda Rogers reminds me of our own Natalie Imbruglia with her honest lyrics and sweet vocals. Rebecca Loebe’s “As I Tell You So” is like sunshine. I’m also in love with Shannon Curtis’ beautiful “Boomerangs and Arrows.”

But I can’t forget about the strong Aussie contingent. The Wellingtons give a perfect slice of pop-rock with “She Gave Up.” Just try listening to it without smiling. I don’t tend to listen to a lot of country music, but Kate Brianna drew me in with “The Devil Came Back For You.” There’s nothing quite like a woman scorned, is there? The jazzy Jessica McPherson has crafted a wonderful groove in “Flow.”

Parx-e is simply a joy. I have fallen for so many songs here, and I can’t wait to learn more about the artists it’s introduced me to. It’s an unassuming disc, but one that’s definitely worth taking a chance on. Parx-e is available to order through JB Hi Fi and other good record stores.

Image source: Parx-e MySpace

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Calm Before – Switch 3

This week I’ve been listening to Canberra rock outfit Switch 3’s first full length release, Calm Before. It’s a curious name, as there really isn’t a lot that’s calming about this album. It’s likely to endear them to the angry young kids out there, but it also made it not really my cup of tea.

These indie rockers from Canberra may not become my favourite band, but there’s still plenty to appreciate about in this recording. These lads play with such intensity, committing completely to their songs. That dedication is infectious, and it’s hard not to believe in what they’re doing. Evan Dorrian is a demon on drums, and his driving beats are the perfect complement to Maf Davis’ powerful vocals.

They may have their roots in punk, but their melodic sensibilities are likely to appeal to music lovers who don’t tend to enjoy bands of that genre. They’re a band who stays true to their artistic vision, even having a hand in producing the disc with ARIA award-winner Anton Haggop.

But there’s just not enough variety here for me. I started out enjoying the songs but the repetitive lyrics and melodies made them drag. There was little respite from the angst-ridden tunes, and not enough diversity within them to keep me engaged. Switch 3 are very good at what they do, both as individuals and a band, and I’m sure fans of the darker side of music are going to lap this up. But right now I feel their potential isn’t quite realised. Calm Before is a solid effort from a band that is only going to improve in time.

Image source: Switch 3 MySpace

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Losing Sleep" – Axle Whitehead

I lapped up Axle Whitehead’s singles “I Don’t Do Surprises” and “Anywhere,” so my expectations of his debut album Losing Sleep were pretty high. I’m thrilled to say it didn’t disappoint. In fact, I’ve listened to very little else since its release.

What keeps me coming back time and time again is the sheer variety of material. My first introduction to Axle was as an Australian Idol contestant way back in season one. His jazz leanings alienated the voting audience, who didn’t even send him through to the top 12. Perhaps he’s learned something from that, or perhaps he’s just developed to appreciate a wider collection of sounds. Either way, the eclectic mix here is fantastic.

Losing Sleep opens with a flurry of energy in the form of the “Satellite.” He downshifts a little in the cruisy radio hit “I Don’t Do Surprises,” before slowing it right down with the romantic “You.” Funk, soul, pop, electronica, and even a dash of country grace the recording, and it’s so much richer for it.

This lush album should put to rest talk of Axle simply being a poor man’s Chris Martin. There are vocal similarities – both have pure voices which can sell a lyric. But Axle’s songs are much more vibrant and considerably more accessible than much of Coldplay’s work.

This album will come as a revelation to those who’ve only seen Axle as a disgraced television host or karaoke singer on the first season of Australian Idol. It’s a superb debut, and well worth a listen.

Image source: Axle Whitehead MySpace

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"The Adventures Of …" – Melanie Horsnell

I loved Melanie Horsnell’s support slot for Jason Mraz, so I was keen to give her debut album The Adventures Of … a spin. Listening to these songs at home, away from the chatter of a restless crowd waiting for the main act, was where they really came alive.

Melanie’s songs stick with you, crawling under your skin and refusing to leave. I recognised many from the Jason Mraz set and found myself humming others after the first listen. All the right ingredients are there.

Melanie is instantly likeable, her lyrics revealing vulnerability, brutal honesty, and wicked sense of humour. Her stories feel at home amongst the notes of her acoustic guitar. We’ve all heard our share of singer-songwriters, but Melanie is a cut above the average.

This album shows an amazing amount of diversity. “I Just Want Some Love” is a pure pop gem. “Pink High Heels” is sassy girl power number which wouldn’t sound out of place at an old-fashioned speakeasy. “Deep Blue Sea” is the sweetest slice of romance.

It’s this variety that gives The Adventures Of … a real enduring charm. I find myself reaching the end only to start it again. That’s the mark of a truly great album. I can’t wait to hear Melanie’s second installment, Complicated Sweetheart, when it’s released in September. If it’s even close to this good, I’m in for a real treat.

Image source: Amazon Japan

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Some Stranger's Ship" – Tim Loydell & the Deckchairs

Lately I’ve been grooving to local blues and roots outfit Tim Loydell & the Deckchairs. It’s an appropriate name for aSome Stranger’s Ship cover band who provide the perfect soundtrack for a mellow weekend.

Their debut EP is called Some Stranger’s Ship, and it’s a superb showcase for this talented Queensland quartet. It all starts with the brilliant “Morning Star,” a hooky modern love song which shows real romance with all its quirks and flaws.

Tim’s husky voice is an ideal fit for the dirty blues rock blend of “Cruisin’,” his sexy rasp sitting perfectly amongst the wailing guitars.

These musicians are first class and it’s never more evident than on “My Oh My,” a driving number which wouldn’t sound out of place on the next John Butler Trio album.

There are just six tracks on Some Stranger’s Ship, but it feels more like an album than an EP. There are no three-second pop songs for these lads. Instead each song has a depth and complexity that ensures you’ll get something new from this release every time you listen to it.

Image source: Keytone.com