by Jess Ribeiro
Jess Ribeiro Kill It Yourself (PBS feature record)
Jess Ribeiro's second album Kill It Yourself is magnificent. It doesn't matter if you're a newcomer to this artist or a lover from way back in her alt-country days, this collection of songs will get you right in the guts. Languid vocals share raw and disturbing imagery, layers and layers of instruments surrounding you like a fluffy quilt - you're right in the middle of the collaboration between Ribeiro and producer Mick Harvey. In the thick of things you can hear the strength and conviction of an artist making sense of some shitty times, emerging on to the other side of the line to walk forward in life, no longer needing to look back through the haze.
This album is as beautiful and lush as it is looking you dead in the eye with the unflinching truth. You can let it wash over you or crawl inside it and savour every last note. Either way you're in for a good time, feeling some real feelings. The world is a better place with this record in it.
By Jenny O'Keefe – The Afterglow
Saint Jude Saint Jude III (Featured on The Breakfast Spread)
When Saint Jude released the epic ‘Saint Clare’ as the first single from their new album I was dumbstruck and then excited - is the whole album going to be this good? The answer is most definitely yes! Melbourne’s most soulful alt-country band have returned with Saint Jude III, a beautifully rich album that is certain to be spun on repeat this spring. Musically this album has Saint Jude’s signature sound driven by lead singer Brooke Penrose’s distinctive and captivating voice, and they’ve teamed up with a bunch of local musicians to supplement the right emotions in all the right spots. However, it’s not enough to listen to the album for the music alone. The deeply thoughtful lyrics that give a subtle social commentary on everything from living in the age of social media to personal relationships is what really makes the album such a stand out. Songs to listen out for include ‘Saint Clare’, ‘Please Let Me Stand’ and ‘Other Side of The World’. If you're looking for an album to make you think a bit this is the one for you. Top class!
By Cat – The Breakfast Spread
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