by Various Artists
Various ArtistsDomestic Documents Vol 1 (PBS feature record)
Jointly compiled by Melbourne’s Butter Sessions, the imprint started by Frankston’s Sleep D, and Noise In My Head, the radio show-cum-label now run out of Sydney, this excellent compilation surveys the current movements and moving currents of electronic music being produced around Australia. Analogue, hardware-driven sounds are prevalent, though the double LP set features everything from the hazy dub techno of Melbourne’s Chiara Kickdrum, to the ambient breaks of Adelaide’s Mic Mills and industrial acid of live favourite Lucy Cliché. Domestic Documents Vol. 1 leaves no doubt about the fertility and diversity of the Australian electronic underground.
Emma Russack In a New State (Featured on The Breakfast Spread)
Emma Russack's new record is a gem. In a New State, her third album, is an exercise in self-examination and personal growth. Songs about understanding how you fit into (or stand out from) your surroundings. The work of a someone finding what they want to do and where they want to be. Russack delivers an incredibly self-assured record about personal vulnerability.
John Lee's bare-bones production gives the whole thing plenty of room to breathe. Emma's voice and guitar work stand stronger and starker than on her previous albums and illuminate her honest delivery. Her backing band give the album a subtle but undeniable momentum and their instrumental flourishes (used sparingly) help punctuate the songs.
Catch Emma playing with Alex Gow and Dan Kelly on The Australian Dreamers tour and dropping by The Breakfast Spread on Wednesday.
By Nick– The Breakfast Spread
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