by The Catholics
"Since 1991 The Catholics have been making music that draws heavily from the jazz tradition while integrating sounds from Latin, African and Eastern European music. Led by bassist Lloyd Swanton, the 7-piece ensemble includes some of Australia’s finest instrumentalists but the overall sound of The Catholics is one of cohesive grooves rather than a series of platforms for indulgent solos.
On ‘Yonder’, The Catholics’ eighth album, we hear the group again working in collective sympathy both with original compositions from various members of the band, to a Calypso-flavoured interpretation of the standard “I Cover the Waterfront”. If ever a title-track set the tone for an album it’s the piece ‘Yonder’ itself. From Swanton’s incessant groove to Gary Daley’s welcoming piano accordion, the track is surely the most compelling entrée into the world of The Catholics.
Yonder has many musical twists and turns but clearly illustrates The Catholics’ ability to write and record albums that make musical sense from start to finish. The dark Eastern themes of Permeate are preceded by the subtlety and acoustic space of Indigo; the upbeat opening track is contrasted with Swanton’s epic closer ‘Doin’ the Darwin Walk’ in which the brass players slowly build a solid foundation for the band to ultimately jam over. On Yonder everybody gets their turn but nobody appears to have any intention of stealing the show.
by Owen McKern - PBS Program Manager
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