Great sounding americana from Australia.
Prime americana from Australia, Caitlin Harnett and The Pony Boys debut album introduces a new distinctive voice, with fine backing and some delicious guitar solos. Harnett’s voice does have an obvious comparator in Hope Sandoval, but don’t think of the lachrymose Mazzy Star, more her guest vocal on Jesus and Mary Chain’s ‘Sometimes Always’ (a ‘lost’ americana classic). Also on the basis of Harnett’s videos, a lot more fun with a very different stage presence. Four of the nine tracks have official videos, all entertaining and in the absence of touring, a great way to get to know the band. ‘5 a.m.’ especially has a three-minute mini-western movie.
This album was recorded a couple of years ago in their producers front room in a day, which is astonishing as the sound is fantastic, the band fleshed out with some sax, pedal and backing vocals. It does mean the tone is pretty consistent throughout, and some variation would certainly make this band flourish next time out. It is obvious that these songs and the band would be great live, which is evidenced by them winning Best Live Band in New South Wales last year (beating DMA’s). Until then enjoy the lovely singing, the twang and jangle of the band and delicious soloing which makes tracks such as ‘Rosie’, ‘Don’t Give Up On Me’ and ‘All My Friends Are Dancers’ such an easy enjoyable listen.
