The album boasts some truly wonderful songs, and none better than the highly melodic "Today's My Day", which features live instrumentation and a vocal which captivates the listener throughout. The song reminded me a little of the Bee Gees "Spicks and Specks", but this time speeded up and delivered with additional impact because 'today's my day'. A great song to play first thing in the morning, because it's great to be alive, and the inclusion of the exuberant kids' voices towards the end of the song further emphasises the point. Other stand out songs include the intriguing "Pencil Sharpener", the delightful "Contrary Mary" and the guitar driven "Broken Dictionary".
My absolute favourite song however, is the wonderful "Butterfly / Papillon" a real tear-jerker, sung with the kind of heartfelt sincerity that would fit perfectly on a Kate & Anna McGarrigle album. A truly captivating adventure in the life of a butterfly, harnessing a slightly European feel with its seductive vocal, simplistic charm, and highly melodic accordion bringing up the rear. The production really is quite superb, and the song could easily qualify as a movie soundtrack if Hollywood would sit up and take notice.
"Third Time's a Charm" offers something a bit different. Here a somewhat complex rhythm pattern creates the necessary tension for the chorus to really explode. The vocal melody is sublime, and the hypnotic intensity of the music keeps the listener intrigued throughout. The brass section provides additional texture to the track, which glistens and shines throughout. I really have no idea what the song is about or what is going on at the end, but I don't really care. 'It's only rock 'n' roll', and I like it!"
"Dance Those Clouds Away" features an optimistic lyric, sitting nicely alongside an intricate rhythm pattern where the bass and drums really let rip. The song further benefits from the inclusion of an electric piano adding additional ambience to the track. Clearly all is well here, because 'we're going to dance those clouds away'. The reciprocal vocal is equally effective, and reminded me a little of the B52s at their best. The song finishes in fine style with a mesmerising lead guitar which hits all the right notes. I'm sure even the late Mick Ronson would have been impressed.
"Extraordinary Adventure Crew" screams out of the speakers with breathtaking intent, a marvellous melodic journey filled 'with logic and laughter', including a highly effective trumpet punctuating the song with noticeable zest. The bass and drums power away like they are accompanying Joe Strummer, and are having heaps of fun in the process. The chorus ascends in a rapture of joy as the band celebrate being 'together in one big adventure'. A delightful piece of music, emphasising the importance of friendship and brimming with pop sensibility.
I love this band, they look great, sound great, and without wishing to repeat myself have the best band name around. The musicianship is outstanding, as are the vocals, which carry the somewhat whimsical lyrics in fine style. They sound like they have had heaps of fun making the album, as do their kids who also contribute their own unique brand of vocal histrionics on a couple of the songs. I hope they visit Australia one day because I would love to see them live, because they are without doubt one of the best bands around. Incidentally, I have heard through the grapevine that they are currently working on a new album due out later this year. Well, I for one can't wait to hear it. Watch this space!
The Relative Minors - brilliant music.
Thanks so much for this generous and thoughtful review! We love Australia's children's music and we're thrilled to be a part of the scene in some way. We would absolutely love to tour Australia some time! Thanks again, Dez!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the feedback! Glad you liked the review.
ReplyDelete