TOM COONEY - PRESQUE VU

Atmospheric, innovative and emotional. Brisbane based, Tom Cooney’s uniquely addictive tunes live and breathe at the heart of all these things.

This young and accomplished folk artist is fast becoming the one to watch in the Oz music scene. After quitting his job and focusing solely on his music career two years ago Cooney has achieved an extraordinary amount. The release of a mini album Hold Me Down, live performances including appearances at Homebake and Splendour in the grass as well as supports slots with the likes of Fionn Regan and M. Ward and the continuing reinvention of self made record label, El Nino El Nino which he shares with two of his closest friends.

But the most substantial and exciting accomplishment is the final release of his debut full length album, Presque Vu. The results of which are near hauntingly beautiful collection of songs which leave the listener certain in the knowledge that by merely listening to these tracks they are becoming part of something bother larger and contradicting more intimate then themselves.

The album is full of honest simplicity. The calmingly serene melodies take hold from the first instance, their appeal frightingly fierce.

The stand out tracks include ‘Mountains In The Sky’, Giulia’, ‘Beneath The Wheel’, ‘The Rivers The Same’ and the memorably spare closer ‘Silence’.

Tom Cooney’s acoustic genius would no doubt appeal to fans of artists such as Fionn Regan, Sondre Lerche, I Am Kloot and Ryan Adams. Presque Vu is an album the likes of which have not necessarily been missing from the Australian scene of late but are definitely leaning towards the rare side. Cooney has managed to debut with a record that not only manages to showcase his abilities as a songwriter in a smart and accessible way but also cements him as someone to watch for. This is only the beginning of what’s sure to be an incredible journey and I for one am looking forward to tagging along for the ride.


BY Lesley Rickman

THE VANDAS - SLOW BURN

After two years Melbourne based indie-rock four piece, the Vandas are back and they bring with them their first full length release aptly titled, Slow Burn.

It's the kind of album that warms with time, becoming familiar and comfortable. And unlike their previous EP's, In The Morning and Didn't Come Here To Be Alone, Slow Burn has a definitive rock sound. Leaving out the country and pop sensibilities that were such a staple of their former sound.

The result is a mature and winning record that works well to showcase what exactly The Vandas are all about and gives a definite feeling that they haven't quite completed the journey which will lead them to where they want to be.

I mean that in the most positive of senses. It's not so much that they're not at the top of their game it's just that they've left room to continue to evolve and grow.

Listening to Slow Burn is an honest and rewarding experience. It's difficult not to be overwhelmed with the feeling that here's a band who are clearly loving what they're doing and are going to continue to surprise and entertain.

The standout tracks include the first single 'Know it All' as well as ''Warm At Night', 'Three Steps Ahead', 'See Me 'Round' and the title track, 'Slow Burn'.

If you''ve yet to hear the familiar comfort of The Vandas sound then I'd more then recommend giving Slow Burn a spin. The album as a whole has a distinctively 70's rock sound but with a modern edge. Not for the electro fans amongst us but if you're looking for a band that you just know would sound even better with the warm crackle that vinyl brings then The Vandas are definitely your best bet.

BY LESLEY RICKMAN

MERCY ARMS - MERCY ARMS

"Mercy Arms? I hate those guys." I was asking a friend what they thought of the young Sydney band. They'd seen them support The Strokes in 2006 and apparently didn't think too much of them. It had something to do with the band acting like 'jerks' on stage with the bass player stagediving into a group of 13 year old girls who failed to catch him. "Oh." I'd replied. The thing is i'd heard a few demos on their myspace page and really liked them. Some months later I chance stumbled upon their Kept Low EP and on a whim forked out eleven dollars to buy it. I didn't regret it, there was something beautiful about it that was instantly captivating, but somewhere along the line I stopped listening to it.Time passed and with 2008 came a plethora of amazing debut records; Vampire Weekend, MGMT and The Teenagers etc were on everyones lips and ipods. I couldn't help but wonder whether people would still be listening to these bands in twenty or even two years time. I suppose it doesn't matter really, but It had been a little while since I'd heard a band that had really swept me off my feet that hadn't crashed and burned several months later.
At the right moment Mercy Arms released their debut, a grand and ambitious effort that sounds new and old at the same time without being overly pretencious. The same magic I remember from Kept Low is still there, only now it's more sparse, hypnotic and matured.Nothing about this record really screams 2008, there is a timeless quality to the production and atmosphere and songs like 'To me Now' and 'Firing Line' sound weirdly familiar, or at least have echoes of something beautiful you've heard before, long ago. Not suprising considering the band worked with Tony Cohen on this record, famous for his work with The Birthday Party, Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds and the Dirty Three.
This album has the potential to endure beyond any current trend or scene, it has the same timeless feel you get when listening to other Australian greats like The Triffids or The Go-Betweens. Regardless of whether or not great things happen for Mercy Arms following this release, this record is definately one for the ages.

CONOR OBERST - CONOR OBERST

It's been something like thirteen years since indie wonder kid and Bright Eye's brain child Conor Oberst has released a 'solo' effort. This self titled album was recorded over two months in a make-shift studio in Mexico with a collection of musician friends now known as The Mystic Valley Band.
The album is twelve tracks of toe-tapping fun like 'I don't want to die [in the hospital]' and 'NYC-gone-gone' to the Dylanesque 'get-well-cards' and quieter, subtle and introspective moments like in 'lenders in the temple'. The album is lovely in its entirety and solidifies Mr Oberst's reputation as one of the greatest songwriters of this decade.It's no big secret that Conor [yes, we're on a first name basis] is heavily influenced by the sixties folk revival scene, with artists like Bob Dylan and Neil Young obvious name drops. So whether you choose to pidgeon hole this album as something obscure like post-folk-revival-revival or alt-country-indie-folk or whatever doesn't really matter because it's easier to describe it as good.
I know it's vague to say something is good. This album is good because I think Conor has done some truly great stuff in his career. For the uninitiated, I'd suggest going and having a listen to his song No one would riot for less and tell me you don't feel an inkling of emotion afterwards or Youtube his performance of When the President talks to God on Jay Leno. In fact go invest in his entire back catalogue and get to know him a little better. Regardless of whether you want a long-term relationship with Conor/Bright Eye's music or just a brief one record fling; this albums as good as any place to start.

THE BOAT PEOPLE - CHANDELIERS

The Boat People – darlings of Brisbane pop. Brisbane pop has become quite an uncommon term since the legendary days of Custard, Regurgitator and Screamfeeder way back in the 1990’s. It’s delightful to hear this tradition from above the border coming back to the forefront.
Whispy riffs and dreamy lyrics make for a light-hearted album that you can’t help but bop along with. This warm and fuzzy album is a long time in the making, with their first of three EPs being released in 2002, and their debut released in 2005, it seems that basking in all that northern sunshine over the past three years has created a release to warm the cockles of anyone’s heart.
If you love the jingle jangle of some well-arranged honest tunes, then you cannot go past this collection of fine tracks from The Boat People. Turn it on, turn it up, and get ready to smile your face off.

Emily Blackburn

THE VINES - MELODIA

The Vines were one of the biggest buzz bands on the planet in 2002 with the release of their phenomenal debut album, Highly Evolved. It seemed there wasn't a teenager in the country who couldn't sing you the chorus of their hit single, ‘Get Free’.

Its been six years, three studio albums, several line-up changes, one medical diagnosis and countless mind altering performances but The Vines are one band that have proved the buzz doesn't always have to be short lived.

Despite any difficulties and negativity the band have suffered over the years, frontman Craig Nicholls is still one of the coolest people in rock for one simple reason. He has the ability to write an 'album'. Some people may see this as a weakness and in some cases it may be. After all what's the point in being able to create 40 plus minutes of aurally pleasing psychosis if the songs don't work as well individually?

Personally that's what I find most appealing about The Vines back catalogue. There's just something incredible about a band who can only really be appreciated in full.

The newest album, Melodia is no exception. As always I became highly skeptical about this release after hearing the first single to be lifted from the album, 'He's a Rocker'. The song just didn't grab me but when it's included within the context of the album as a whole I can't help but like it.

While I still maintain the album should be judged as a whole, If I had to choose stand out tracks then I couldn't go past the brilliant opener 'Get Out' as well as 'Autumn Shade III', 'Orange Amber', 'True as The Night' ' Scream' and 'She Is Gone'.

If you're already a Vines convert then you won't have any issues with new album but if you're new to their sound then Melodia might not be the best place to start but by all means give it a go.

Lesley Rickman

ALBERT HAMMOND JR - COMO TE LLAMA

When Strokes man Albert Hammond Jr. first embarked on his solo career, I have to say I was sceptical at best. But the simplistic beauty and uplifting sounds of his debut release Yours To Keep won me over far more quickly then my cynical side would like to admit.

So when I found out about the release of his sophomore effort, Como Te Llama? I was quite confident that I knew what to expect but once again Hammond has managed to surprise me.

Como Te Llama? is everything a follow up album should be plus more. Hammond has taken his same recognisable sound and turned it upside down. The concepts used in the first album were quite sweet and naive. Exploring the ideas of new love and the idealistic hope that so often comes along with it. He’s clearly grown up a little since then and isn’t afraid to explore slightly darker themes and issues.

These new batch of songs are far less instant and recognisable then his earlier efforts but I think they benefit from it. The sweeping, melodious hooks are gone and have been replaced by a much more enthusiastic, driving instrumental sound.

His influences shine through in a much more comprehensive way this time round with aspects of the 60’s and 70’s making themselves known in abundance.

The Standout tracks include first single ‘GFC’ as well as ‘Bargain Of The Century’, ‘Rocket’, ‘You Won’t Be Fooled By This’, ‘Miss Myrte’ and the ever epic, ‘Spooky Couch’.

You don’t have to be a Strokes fan to appreciate this. It may have the same slightly dirty and rhythmic guitar sound but that’s never really a bad thing. Albert Hammond Jr. has done himself proud with this record and I recommend it to anyone looking for something new and interesting to hold their attention.

Lesley Rickman

MUPH AND PLUTONIC - AND THEN TOMORROW CAME...

Released in stores across Australia this coming Friday, July 19, …AND THEN TOMORROW CAME (VOL.1), is Melbourne duo Muph and Plutonic’s outstanding third album. In the two years since ‘Silence the Sirens’ was released, it appears that Australian Hip Hop legends, Muph and Plutonic,

have focused on refining and once again re-defining their unique presence in the Australian Hip Hop scene, presenting an album so rich in content it stands in a league of its own.

Each of the albums 13 tracks represent realistically honest accounts of the influences, emotions, situations and experiences that have shaped and molded their life journey. The albums opening track, ‘The Damn Truth’, sets the atmosphere and clearly portrays the albums underlying message of representing the truth, beginning with oneself. This message is backed up in the tracks And Then Tomorrow Came, Today, and Size of the Soul. The confronting reality of the effects of personal self-destruction is expressed in the raw and frankly honest lyrics in Yesterday’s Basement and Beautiful Ugly.

The beautiful vocals of Jess Harlen accompany Beautiful Ugly, Show Me Your Face and Don’t Worry About Nothin’, and it is clear to the listener that the guest artists have been chosen carefully to accompany the lyrics, with live saxophones, trumpet and guitar adding a unique textual element to the mandatory hip hop sound of vinyl scratching and synthesized sounds.

AND THEN TOMORROW CAME takes us on a 13 track journey through the eyes of Muph and Plutonic, leading to the very fitting concluding track ‘Don’t Worry About Nothin’. With strong and elevating lyrics- Lift ya feet up, put your foot down/ Hold ya head high, try not to look down/ Take a deep breath release push out…on this tracks conclusion there is only one reaction necessary- press play and begin the Muph and Plutonic journey again!!

Muph & Plutonic will commence their national AND THEN TOMORROW CAME tour in August, with shows running through until October. Tour dates and ticket details are available on the websites listed below. Signed copies of the album can be pre-ordered through the Muph & Plutonic website for a limited time. All tracks were produced, recorded and mixed by Plutonic Lab, with all cuts by DJ Bonez. Distributed by Obese Records

WWW: MUPHANDPLUTONIC.COM OBESERECORDS.COM MYSPACE.COM/MUPHANDPLUTONIC



Janice Teitzel

Feature Album Review - Wild Beasts: Limbo, Panto

I never know what to expect from bands signed to or affiliated with UK record label, Domino but I have to admit, I’m very rarely disappointed. Newly signed four piece, Wild Beasts are no exception.

I came to the album with no clue as to what I was getting myself into. I sat down, pressed play on my CD player and came to some odd 40 minutes later.

Wild Beasts debut album, Limbo Panto had me mesmerised from the first minute right up until the last. So much so that if you had of asked me what I thought after that first listen I would have been at a loss to tell you.

Now that I’ve had time to break free from the spell I have to conclude that I adore it. The unpredictability coupled with the ingenious melodies and unique vocals make for a distractingly vivid listen.

I’ve often found myself preaching as to the importance of ‘the album’ and the way songs should fit and flow within their given context. Wild Beasts have created one of the most satisfying examples of an album that I’ve heard in a long time.

Limbo Panto is an experience, that much is for sure but if I had to distinguish certain tracks for individual consumption then I suppose I’d I have to go with songs like ‘Devil’s Crayon’, ‘His Grinning Skull’, ‘Brave Bulging Buoyant Clairvoyants’ and the stunning closer ‘Cheerio Chaps, Cheering Goodbye’.

There is very little I can honestly think to compare Wild Beasts sound but to experience their music is to be drawn into a world of dramatic performance, everything is heightened and overblown but in the best possible, most enjoyable way. I sincerely doubt this kind of record would appeal to the masses. It’s imperfect nature would just be too much for most to bare but I find it charming and recommend it to all who are brave enough to give it a go.

Feature Album Review - The Early Learnings of Eugene McGuinness

2008 has been an amazing year for new music so far, with a myriad of bands bringing out near jaw-droopingly good debut releases. From Cajun Dance Party to The Silents to Vampire Weekend I’ve just been continually surprised and delighted.

Another fantastic debut which has just come to my attention is actually a mini album of 8 tracks by an incredible young songwriter by the name of Eugene McGuinness. The album is entitled The Early Learning’s of Eugene McGuinness and is one of the rawest most satisfyingly beautiful collection of songs I’ve heard in a long while.

I hadn’t heard a bar of McGuinness’ work before listening to the record but I was instantly taken with his quirky, addictive and melodic sound. This twenty-something lad from Liverpool has undoubtedly become an instant favourite of mine. Especially with tracks such as the catchy opener ‘High Score’ as well as his first single ‘Monsters Under The Bed’.

Other tracks of note include, ‘Bold Street’, ‘A Child Lost In Tesco’ and ‘A Girl Whom My Eyes Shine For But My Shoes Run From’.

But when it comes down to it I can’t seem to gush enough about the merits of this recording as a whole. The Early Learning’s Of is such a beautiful collection of tracks. McGuinness has a gift for stringing a song together that very few seem to possess.

The Early Learning’s Of is only the beginning though. A first effort. The knowledge of that alone leaves me in a state of frenzied anticipation for what’s to come. If my instincts are working at all then it’s only going to get better from here on in.

Apparently a full length release has just finished being recorded and has a tentative release date of October this year. I for one am dying to hear it. If you’re looking for a new exciting musical obsession then give Eugene McGuinness a listen and get in on the ground floor of what’s bound to be a highly crowded bandwagon.

Feature Album Review - Mystery Jets; Twenty One

So few bands take the time to grow and evolve from album to album. Once they find a formula that works they stick with it. At least while it’s still gaining them money and attention. These are the kind of bands who never seem to get very far in their careers, their audiences soon losing interesting and moving onto a new, fresher sounding group.

One such band who understand the importance of change and the dangers of becoming stagnant are London based indie four piece, Mystery Jets.

Mystery Jets 2006 debut album, Making Dens was a quirky individual and often confusing album. It was by no means perfect but it was definitely an attention grabber. The kind of record that makes people stop and listen. Anticipation levels instantly peaked for the follow up.

Now, two years later, the Jets are finally set to release that follow up with Twenty One. The album is everything you’d expect from their sophomore effort while at the same time being an utter shock.

Twenty One is everything Making Dens was not. It’s polished, planned and downright poppy. The band have grown up somewhat since their earlier efforts. They’re still finding their niche but for the most part they’re getting it sorted. Their influences are obviously many and varied but that eclectic mix more then works for them.

The stand out tracks include both singles so far, ‘Young Love’ and ‘Two Doors Down’ as well as ‘Half In Love With Elizabeth’, ‘First To Know’ and the ever addictive ‘Hand Me Down’

If you’re a prior fan of Mystery Jets then you’ll love the album as long as you come to it with an open mind. They’re not the band they once were but I think that’s a credit to them. If you’re new to their work then you should have no troubles emerging yourself in this fun and memorable album. Whether you’re looking for something to dance around the living room to or a simple chill out album then you’re bound to find something which suits here. So give Twenty One a spin. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Feature Album Review - The Futureheads; This Is Not The World

For a band who were considering calling it a day, The Futureheads are doing surprisingly well. The four piece, north-east UK rock-popsters have recently released their third full length album entitled, This Is Not The World.

The Futureheads hit the scene in 2004 in quite a big way with their debut self titled LP. Their immediate, catchy tunes and pop punk sensibilities ensured them an almost instantaneous dedicated fan following.

2006; however, saw many people with a strong sense of disillusionment at The Futureheads sound and direction. With their Sophomore album, News and Tributes being far more polished and mainstream then their original efforts.

Two years later the boys seem to have both returned to their roots and taken a few giant steps forward. This Is Not The World is everything you could possibly want from a Futureheads release.

The album takes no time at all to fall in love with. It’s simple and memorable formula is what good pop music is all about. From first listen you’ll be humming the opening track (and coincidentally, the first single), ‘The Beginning Of The Twist’.

Other undeniably stand out tracks include ‘Think Tonight’, ‘Hard To Bear’, ‘Work Is Never Done’, ‘Everything’s Changing Today’ and the current single, ‘Radio Heart’ which I has been stuck in my head for what seems like days now.

Don’t get me wrong, This Is Not The World is nowhere near one of the best albums I’ve heard of late. I can’t imagine it becoming a future ‘classic’ release, far from it but it’s without a doubt fun and likeable. The kind of album which lifts your spirits and increases the urge to embarrass yourself on the dance floor (either literally or figuratively).

If you’ve yet to hear this album then I strongly recommend getting down to your local record store and grabbing yourself a copy. Your CD player will thank you for it.

Feature Album Review - The Dresden Dolls; No, Virginia

Boston based musical duo, The Dresden Dolls have been together 7 years, 3 albums, 7 singles, 2 DVDs and countless live performances.

This year sees the release of their fourth full length effort, No, Virginia (out now through Roadrunner records), which is actually a collection of unreleased tracks and B-sides from the Yes, Virginia sessions from their sophomore album of the same name.

The Dresden Dolls sound is usually labelled as being ‘Punk Cabaret’ a title invented by member, Amanda Palmer due to a fear that the press would refer to them as ‘gothic’. In actuality, ‘Punk Cabaret’ is quite a fitting title but one that doesn’t really lend itself to a full explanation of what to expect from their distinctive and overtly unique sound.

I myself am not a fan of ‘The Dolls music. It’s all a little too avant-garde and pretentious for my liking. It’s almost as if they’re trying so hard to be quirky and memorable that they’ve forgotten they’re meant to be making music worth listening to.

The tracks I find the most tolerable include, ‘The Mouse And The Model’, ‘The Gardener’ and ‘The Kill’.

There’s just something about Palmer’s voice that rubs me the wrong way. I can’t quite pinpoint what it is. All I know is after an entire album of her somewhat husky garbling I’m well on my way to needing a large glass of whatever’s on tap.

Don’t take my word for it though. There’s every chance I’m part of the minority that just ‘doesn’t get’ what The Dresden Dolls specific brand of genius is all about. If you’re yet to hear them by all means give No, Virginia a spin. To each their own, after all.

Feature Album Review - Snowman; The Horse, The Rat and The Swan

It was two years ago now that Perth based indie four piece, Snowman infected our airwaves and CD players with their self titled debut full length release. Their quirky, disjointed and often confusing sound has understandably been the source of much interest.

Snowman are set to release their sophomore record, The Horse, The Rat And The Swan on the 24th of this month, through Remote Control Records.

The album as a whole is a fast paced, highly energetic trip into a nearly unidentifiable world. If you’re into convention then Snowman probably aren’t the band you’ve been waiting for.

The standout tracks include ‘We Are The Plague’, ‘The Gods Of The Upper House’, ‘She is Turning Into You’ and Daniel Was a Timebomb’. The last of which has a distinctively punk-esque edge to it. I’m not talking the pale imitation ’pop-punk’ that we hear so much of these days but the kind worth your time - early Clash/Sex Pistols/Buzzcocks type punk.

In general The Horse, The Rat And The Swan is not my kind of album. At least not the kind I can picture myself feeling the need to listen to on a regular basis but despite that I still find myself quite intrigued by the whole production.

There is something oddly engaging about a record that has the ability to create a sort of noise opera from the very depths of their songs. Snowman defy normality and embrace originality. Definitely a band you’ve got to hear to understand

Feature Album Review - Cajun Dance Party: The Colourful Life

Every now and then a new band comes along who capture your imagination and heart in equal measure. Every time you hear them you get a little thrill and you just know you’re going to love whatever they do next.

At the moment that band for me is the ever lovely London based five piece, Cajun Dance Party. They released 2 singles last year both of which I feel head over heels for from the first listen. And now, finally, they’re releasing their debut album, The Colourful Life.

As most people are aware there is an unofficial rule that when you anticipate greatness there’s always a chance you’re going to be disappointed. Thankfully my blind trust in Cajun Dance Party to release an amazing debut was not in vain.

The standouts include previous singles, ‘The Next Untouchable’, ‘Amylase’ and ‘The Race’ as well as the ‘The Firework’, ‘Buttercup’ and the beautifully melancholy ‘Time Falls’.

The Colourful Life is everything I hoped it to be - vibrant, fun, memorable and inspired. All of which is made just that little bit more impressive by one simple fact. Cajun Dance Party is made up of a group of 18 year olds.

These truly talented teens give me more hope for the future of music then almost any other band on the scene today. Their fresh, optimistic and somewhat naïve approach to music is already leading them to amazing places.

Not only are they releasing their debut this month they also have plans to release their sophomore album later in the year after they’ve finished high school. Which is, if nothing else, inspiringly ambitious.

Cajun Dance Party are without a doubt a band to watch for. They’re already proving their worth and it’s still early days. These kids could go anywhere and chances are they will. So give The Colourful Life a listen. It’ll make a fantastic addition to any indie lovers music collection.

Feature Album Review - Tapes 'n Tapes: Walk It Off

Tapes ‘N Tapes 2006 debut album, The Loon, was condemned by many for lacking in originality and depth. Now, a couple of years on, the Minneapolis boys have just released their sophomore album, Walk It Off, and I have a feeling this is the record that will have all those non-believers out there seriously rethinking their position.

Walk It Off is one of the more eclectic albums I’ve heard of late. There doesn’t seem to be a distinguishable pattern or progression to follow but for reasons unknown and best left unquestioned, the album doesn’t suffer for it one bit.

One of the things I find most charming about this album is its somewhat raw and organic sound. A quality I’m attributing to the addition of Dave Fridmann (ex Mercury Rev bassist) as producer. His low-fi approach to the project works far more effectively then I could ever have imagined.

The only real criticism I can offer of Walk It Off is the track listing. If I were listing to this one vinyl I have a feeling I’d only ever really be inclined to give side A a spin.

All of the real stand outs appear on the first half of the album - “Le Ruse’, ‘Time Of Songs’, the wonderfully distorted ‘Headshock’ and the even more wonderfully distorted but more up-tempo ‘Conquest’.

Tapes ‘N Tapes may have received there fair share of flack in the past but they also, justifiably, have a loyal and dedicated fan following. Neither The Loon nor Walk It Off were perfect albums but they both hold an amazing amount of charm and likeability, the kind which leaves the perfect amount of room for improvement.

It’s clear to me that Tapes ‘N Tapes best days are yet to come. And I for one am more then happy to tag along for the undoubtedly interesting ride.

If you’re a fan of unpolished indie rock, the kind that grows and breaths making for a listening experience then Walk It Off is definitely an album worth your time.

Feature Album Review - Young Knives: Superabundance

London based indie popsters, Young Knives have recently released their sophomore LP, Superabundance through Warner Records.

The results of which are everything you’d expect from an up and coming indie group on the scene today. Recorded in Scotland and produced by Tony Doogan, Superabundance is a fantastic follow-up by any standards.

The album is an eclectic mix of pulse racing dance floor fillers as well as more mellow reflective tracks. On first listen it’s easy to get swept up in the novelty and newness of fresh Young Knives material but the more I play it the more I find myself falling love with the album as a whole. Complete and separate from their debut.

The stand out tracks include singles, ‘Terra Firma’, ‘Up All Night’ and the sweepingly melodic ‘Turn Tail’ as well as ‘I Can Hardly See Them’, ‘Dyed In The Wool’ and the deceivingly addictive ‘Mummy Light The Fire’.

While I’m definitely a fan of Superabundance, it seems, on occasion, as if Young Knives are still struggling to find their proverbial feet, shifting back and forth between cutting social commentary and light-hearted quirk. The album is at times missing that ever important common thread which should run through from beginning to end making the album an entity unto itself.

Despite some unavoidable shortcomings, Young Knives have achieved a great deal in their time together. They have two fantastic full length albums as well as a handful of EP’s and singles. And they’ve toured extensively including support slots alongside the likes of Hot Hot Heat, The Futureheads, Dirty Pretty Things and The Rakes.

If you’re yet to discover Young Knives then Superabundance is as good a place as any to become acquainted. If nothing else it’s an easily enjoyable album which holds the promise of great things to come from this likable little three piece.

Feature Album Review - Cut Copy: In Ghost Colours

It’s been quite a while between releases for Melbourne based indie-synth-electro popsters, Cut Copy. But in that time they’ve built up an international reputation as some of the best in the business. Having toured with the likes of Franz Ferdinand, Bloc Party and Daft Punk, winning hearts all the while.

Now with the eventual release of their sophomore album, In Ghost Colours, after a delay with the Australian release in order to coincide with the international one, things seem more promising then ever before. The boys are set to spend the rest of ‘08 touring, promoting and just generally spreading the Cut Copy love.

And if the new album itself is anything to go by then they should have a fairly easy time of it. In Ghost Colours picks up where their debut left off with an electro 80’s vibe that’s more then a little addictive. Although, this time around they’ve added something extra, something I can only think to describe as depth.

The new album is just as fun and easy to listen to as the last but there’s an added level of emotion and integrity which gives it a definite edge. Making for a stronger and more relatable sound.

I think the real standout for me would have to be the incredible opener, ’Feel The Love’ which somehow reminds me of an early Dappled Cities, way back when they were still “fly”. Other tracks worth mentioning include the two singles so far, ‘Lights and Music’ and ‘So Haunted’ as well as ‘Out There On The Ice’, ‘Unforgettable Season’ and ‘Strangers In The Wind’.

Cut Copy’s, In Ghost Colours is a rare kind of album. The kind which has the ability to appeal to almost all indie lovers out there. Whether you’re a fan of the ever growing electro phenomenon or prefer more traditionally structured pop songs then you‘re sure to find something to suit. It’s the kind of record that is both instant and a grower. It’s out now through Modular. I definitely recommend checking it out for yourself.

Feature Album Review - We Are Scientists: Brain Thrust Mastery

Having released an incredible debut LP with, With Love And Squalor it was always going to be a trial for We Are Scientists to come up with a follow up which could top it.

Since the release of their new album, Brain Thrust Mastery I’ve given up on the idea of them being able to “top it” and resigned myself to the fact that the once distinctive We Are Scientists ‘sound’ is no more.

It’s difficult to say what brought about this change in the two years between releases but the one obvious difference is the loss of drummer, Michael Tapper. The abrupt change in style could be due to his absence or his absence could have been because of the style change. At the moment it’s really just a matter for the chicken vs. egg court.

Despite any initial disappointments I may have felt upon hearing Brain Thrust Mastery I can’t seem to help but be drawn into it’s many charms and favours. Even without the addition of Tapper the boys from Brooklyn have a certain quirky appeal which set them apart from the others.

Remaining members Keith Murray and Chris Cain’s new found appreciation for the 80’s does not go unnoticed with many tracks having a distinctively Duran Duran-esque vibe. Including current single ‘After Hours’, which has managed to stake it’s claim as one of the albums highlights.

Other noteworthy tracks include the addictive opener, ‘Ghouls’ as well as ‘Lets See It’, ‘Impatience’, ‘Spoken For’ and ‘That’s What Counts’.

During an American tour last year Murray and Cain were seen to be taking the stage before each set, testing out their stand-up comedy routine. It’s antics like this which guarantee We Are Scientists remain one of the more interesting bands on the indie scene. Their wit and humour keeping them from fading into obscurity.

If you’re already a WAS fan then by all means check out Brain Thrust Mastery but be sure to keep an open mind. I promise you it won’t be what you expect.

Feature album review; The Silents - Things To Learn

Some bands have the ability to grab your attention from the get go, seemingly with little to no effort. Perth based indie four piece, The Silents are one such band.

From the first time I heard their debut EP, Flicker and Flames, I was hooked. Their raw garage rock resonance teamed with their somewhat psychedelic sounding lyrics and 90’s indie pop tendencies made them difficult to ignore.

Almost two years later and The Silents are set to release their debut full length album, Things To Learn and I for one could not be more excited.

The album is a perfect example of everything The Silents are and offer. This strong collection of well written and produced songs is one of the best Australian debuts of its kind to be released in a long time.

Stand out tracks include previous EP released numbers, ‘Nightcrawl’ and ‘23’ and current single, ‘Little Girl Lost’ as well as ‘Ophelia’, ‘Generation Space’ and the title track, ‘Things To Learn’.

The Silents are a band well worth keeping an ear out for. In their short time together they’ve released two successful EP’s one amazing album and toured extensively including support slots alongside the likes of Maximo Park, The Vines, You Am I and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.

Where they’ll go next is anyone’s guess but there’s no denying wherever it is, it’ll be great. The Silents are Oz legends in the making and are quickly becoming one of my favourite bands to boot. So get out there and buy their album, Things To Learn (out March 29 through Ivy League Records). Chances are - You’re going to love it.