Category: Album Reviews

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

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"The Last Party" – The Hampdens

They say every day deserves a soundtrack. If that’s true then I’d pick The Hampdens’ debut album The Last Party for my Sundays. This isn’t your dance til your feet hurt and drink til you puke kind of party. Instead it evokes chilled-out cocktail parties, with some mellow jazz in the background and some good conversation.

It’s one of those sleeper albums, which may not immediately grab you on the first listen. Instead, it wraps around you slowly, and becomes richer with each and every listen.

Susannah Legge’s voice is exquisite, ethereal and warm all at the same time. Her lush vocals sit nestled in the mix of synthesizers and strings, a strange blend but one that somehow works.

“Asleep on the Lawn” and “Croupier” are standouts, but this album is really bigger than its parts. The tracks are sewn together to create something rare and beautiful which begs to be played again and again.

Image source: JB Hi-Fi

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Lessons to be Learned" – Gabriella Cilmi

After falling in love with Gabriella Cilmi’s playful debut single “Sweet About Me,” I couldn’t wait to hear more. Thankfully her album Lessons to be Learned doesn’t disappoint.

While listening to the album it’s easy to forget that Gabriella is just 16 years old. Her soulful voice sounds so much older, and the tunes she’s penned show a maturity beyond her years. The comparisons to Amy Winehouse are inevitable. Vocally they do sound very similar and they both share the same penchant for quirky soul numbers. But while Ms Winehouse’s songs speak of sadness and tragedy, Gabriella’s songs are brimming with youthful optimism and joy.

The album opens with a burst of energy in the form of “Save the Lies,” an upbeat lead in to her popular first single. Then the album changes pace a little, with the introspective ballad “Sanctuary.” The bubbly rhythms of “Got No Place to Go” are infectious, and the vintage charm of “Cigarettes and Lies” is loads of fun.

Lessons to be Learned is essentially a pop album but it enjoys flirting with genres, and therein lies its strength. Gabriella dabbles with jazz, adds a dash of blues, and spices it up with a good dose of soul, yet this CD is never alienating. Instead this eclectic mix allows Lessons to be Learned to stand up to repeated listens. Every song is strong, and these days that’s a very rare thing indeed.

Image supplied by Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Wish it All Away" – Dave Anderson

One of the things I love most about writing this blog is that it allows me to discover some fantastic new music. The most recent disc to rev me is Dave Anderson’s soon-to-be-released debut album Wish it All Away.

It’s an album with all the right ingredients. The songs are original, yet accessible. Dave’s voice is warm and rich, like an old friend drawing you in from the first listen. And fans of organic music will love the soothing acoustic guitar chords that draw it all together.

It opens with “Sing Me a Song,” a tongue-in-cheek track chiding the punters who only want to hear cover versions. Its melody is radio friendly, but the lyrics reveal a darker criticism of the bar scene. We hear more contradictions in “Love is a Fairytale.” The music is upbeat and on first listen it appears like any traditional love song, but take a listen to the lyrics and you’ll hear something sadder and more unique.

The bubbly opening tunes give way to softer sounds as the album progresses. Dave crafts a clever pop song, and he proves equally adept at creating moving ballads. The final cut, “Promise I Made” utterly floored me.

Wish it All Away is even more impressive when you consider it is entirely self-funded. I’m not sure the major labels could have made it sound any more professional.

Dave Anderson is a real find. This Perth-born, Sydney-based singer-songwriter may have drawn comparisons to Pete Murray and Something for Kate, but I believe his songs have a much wider appeal.

The album is scheduled to hit shelves on 1 June, and will be available through iTunes on 1 July. Dave Anderson will play the following venues in support of its release. If you want to hear some great tunes, I suggest checking out this amazing talent at the following venues.

6 June 2008 – Hyde Park Hotel, Perth
8 June 2008 – Dunsborough Hotel, Western Australia
19 June 2008 – The Vanguard, Sydney
21 June 2008 – Fix Bar, Melbourne

Image supplied by the artist

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"The Fall and Rise of King Curly 1998-2008" – King Curly

I’ve been doing a lot of travelling this week. I only need one thing for my journeys up and down the highway: good music. Thankfully I recently received King Curly’s newie, The Fall and Rise of King Curly 1998-2008, and it’s taken up permanent residence in my car stereo.

It’s the perfect album for travelling really. It’s the kind of recording that needs your attention. It’s not the sort of music you’d put on at home when you were busy, because you’d miss the nuances that make it so rich.

King Curly’s tunes are eclectic, with lashings of country, soul, jazz, and old school rock and roll. They’re fleshed out with sublime harmonies, and a rich blend of instruments. A casual listener might think the songs sound pretty, and they’d be right.

But the casual listener probably wouldn’t catch the lyrics, which would be a real shame. They’re quirky, darkly funny, and absolutely fantastic. I love the rollicking zombie tune, “I’m Coming Back (In a Revenge Song),” and the strangely sweet love song “I Wish I Was a Girl.”

The Fall and Rise of King Curly 1998-2008 is a best of recording, documenting their best songs from the last 10 years. It provides a great introduction to this brilliant band that somehow has managed to fly underneath the radar. Long may they reign!

Image source: supplied by promoter

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"6th Perception" – Nelson Clemente

Last week a new CD passed across my desk 6th Perception, the debut EP from Perth artist Nelson Clemente. His handsome face, with piercing dark eyes and full sensuous lips is sure to set hearts fluttering. But when I scanned the track list and noticed a song called “You Want Me Don’t You?” I wondered whether he might be too arrogant to win over an Aussie audience.

Slipping the disc in my stereo I realized this early concern was unfounded. The track in question was more playful than sleazy, and irresistibly catchy. “It’s All My Fault” shows a more aggressive side, while the award-winning song “You Me Us We” is sweet and delicate.

It’s rare to hear such eclectic tracks on an EP, but this diversity is never isolating. The use of old-style electronics and synthesizers and Nelson’s pure vocals unifies the songs, making the transition between these different moods easy.

All the songs on 6th Perception have a pop-dance flavour, but this is amplified in the remixed versions. While I enjoyed the original takes, I think these remixes give added depth to these songs. I can definitely imagine these tracks pumping out loud in the clubs.

Browsing through Nelson’s bio, I realised just amazing this EP is. He’s an independent artist breaking into the pop-dance genre, something that’s virtually unheard of in this country. Yet he’s plugging away at it, writing, singing, and even helping to produce 6th Perception. He’s making his mark under his own steam, and it seems to be working. Nelson’s heading to London later this year to appear in the Popshow charity event. This Western Australian musician is definitely one to watch.

Image source: artist supplied