Carl Sandburg Visits Me In A Dream

Here’s a little special feature as I highlight artists and bands from the only nation that is also its own continent–Australia!

Artist to Know: Sia

You might know Sia Furler from her multiple stints with UK collective Zero 7, or perhaps you are well versed with her critically acclaimed debut album Colour the Small One. Sia is now preparing to release her sophomore release Some People Have Real Problems in January 2008, and from the sound of a few of the songs from the 14-track album, Sia is on her way to being annointed the queen of indie rock. Sia’s distinct voice, combined with her lyrical prowess and sense of humor,(see album title) make her such an interesting listen. Her vocals might not be the most graceful, but they certainly are captivating as she proves she’s got a knack for catchy rhythms. Whether it’s a pop ballad (”Day Too Soon”) or a folk-rock ditty (”Buttons”, “The Girl”), Sia manages to pull it off with substance and style.

Sia - Buttons

Track to Hear: Gotye - Learnalilgivinandlovin‘

Melbourne mate Wally DeBacker, known as Gotye, is actually the drummer for Australian rock outfit The Basics, but he also doubles as a retro-rock-lovin’ mixmaster/musician. His most recent release Like Drawing Blood reached the top of the Australian charts last year, but hasn’t succeeded in getting attention here in the US. The album is chock full of intriguing beats and wonderful vocals, and the lead track “Learnalilgivinandlovin’” is perhaps one of the most delectable tunes I’ve heard in years. This feel-good, motown track almost seems better suited for 30 years ago, but like fine wine, it is certainly more precious and delicious now. It’s about time we learned a little givin’ and lovin’.

Video to Watch: John Butler Trio - Ocean

Led by John Butler, this trio of amazingly talented Aussies has made quite a splash even in the US with their most recent album Grand National. John Butler also happens to be one of the most skilled guitarists in the world, and to prove it, just take a look at this video of him performing the song “Ocean”.

Show to See (for Chicago):

Who? Architecture in Helsinki

When? Doors open 6 PM, October 16, 2007

What? This Australian band is not in fact from the great country of Finland (as their name may suggest), but they do offer some incredibly exotic melodies and vocals. Sometimes I find them a tad eclectic for my tastes, but songs like “Red Turned White” and “Debbie” remind me of how fun music can really be.

How Much? $15

What Did I Miss: I haven’t had a chance thus far to feature all the great Australian artists and bands that I intended to tell you all about. So here are some one-liners about a couple more:

Xavier Rudd-Paul Simon clone, down to the voice and the reggae-folk influences.

Bernard Fanning-Returning to the glory of golden AM radio, Fanning sounds like a combination of James Taylor and The Dobbie Brothers.

New Buffalo-This Aussie’s voice floats effortlessly over beautifully crafted folk-pop arrangements.

Australian outfit The John Butler Trio released their sophomore album Grand National, and I’ve been infatuated with it since then. Some might classify their music as roots or jam, and although the core definitions seem appropriate, the connotations are not. A jam band implies a lack of lyrical talent, or at least a serious lack of attention to detail. For JBT, this simply is not the case.

Sonically, Grand National is exceptional. It contains some of the best guitarmanship I’ve heard in quite a while, from the jangly to the trippy to the straight up nasty (the good nasty). Indeed, the guitar takes center stage in the songs, showcasing everything from quieter ballads (see “Losing You”) to cranking out some pounding riffs (”Gov’ Did Nothin’”). And that’s not to disparage the vocals that are present on this album–while their content is nothing exceptional or incredibly profound, it would be shameful to disregard them. They certain add a positive element to the tracks. On “Gov’ Did Nothin’”, the vocals get you started and then the strings take over with some fantastic 4 minute bridge of soloing. Or have a listen to “Fire in the Sky”, which just flirts with your ears until you succumb to its infectious hooks. And if I could see them play “Funky Tonight”, with its fingerlickin’ pluckings and all, surely it would be a sight to see.

So stop reading. Go and get Grand National.
Listen to “Gov’ Did Nothin’” (5/5)
Listen to “Funky Tonight” (4.6/5)