Icehouse – Primitive Man (Album Review)

Released in 1982, Primitive Man became a landmark album for the Australian band that had been formerly billed as Flowers. While the name change may confuse newcomers, this second release under the name Icehouse, led by frontman Iva Davies, is not only an evolution but includes Australia’s unofficial national anthem; Great Southern Land. 

Adding more sophistication and production qualities, when compared directly to their debut album, Primitive Man offers music lovers a sensory experience that explores a variety of musical styles. The pristine production enhances the clarity of each instrument and allows the atmospheric and electronic elements to shine. Perhaps most importantly, Primitive Man, as with all of Icehouse’s recordings, sounds exceptional via both legacy and modern formats. Although, I will say that the 2017 vinyl reissue, pressed from the 2012 digital remasters, has a slight edge over the digital counterpart. It’s simply the analogue warmth (distortion) of the format that is the differential aspect here as it just smooths the overall presentation of the album. 

Visually, Primitive Man is striking and as solid as the stream or CD releases can be, none are quite as impactful as when this album is released on the larger vinyl canvas. While I’ve yet to compile a list of the best album covers of all time, Primitive Man would certainly be at the top of the list for Icehouse’s artwork has always been exceptional, but Primitive Man certainly plays into the overall thematic elements of the album and is a perfect visual counterpart to the audible journey. 

Further reflecting on the music itself, while not entirely void of new wave rock influences, that were a focal point of their debut, Primitive Man certainly focused more on the synth-pop elements that would further catapult the band to mainstream success. While newcomers to the band would be advised to check out White Heat: 30 Hits; make sure you check out the music that makes up not only this album but Icehouse’s entire back catalogue as the album-only songs as as pivotal to the band’s success as the hits. Hence, join me as we take a look at the songs that make up this landmark Australian release. 

Great Southern Land is Icehouse’s magnum opus. While it wasn’t the only standout hit from Primitive Man, it has remained in the social consciousness since its release, for there likely isn’t an Australian who hasn’t heard this incredible tune. Perhaps they don’t know the artist or never purchased the album or the single, but one thing is for certain, every Australian knows the song when they hear it. Few songs are so influential in this way that when a tune such as Great Southern Land comes along, you need to sit up and take notice. Characterised by a haunting melody, atmospheric instrumental backing, and sweeping arrangements, Great Southern Land captures the soul from the very first note to the last. While some may lament the use of synthesised elements, to do so would be at their peril for this classic tune is representative of some of the very best synthesised music in all of recorded music history. 

Uniform appears after a longer fadeout than one would normally expect, but the slow build ensures that it isn’t a jolt to the senses following the melodic Great Southern Land as Uniform has a rhythmic dance vibe that is quite different to the album’s opening tune. Nevertheless, Uniform is a fantastic song from the era and while it likely isn’t a standout for many people, Primitive Man wouldn’t be the same without it. 

Hey, Little Girl again shifts the tone for it’s a more relaxed and introspective inclusion. At this stage, I’ve been enjoying Primitive Man for well over three decades and I truly have a love/hate relationship with Hey, Little Girl. In some ways, it reminds me of Love In Motion; another song that I have mixed feelings about. It isn’t that these tunes are bad, anything but, I’m just not a fan of ballad-styled tunes when Icehouse records them as I feel Davies’ vocals become a little too campy throughout. It’s not the synth-pop element either as I simply adore the musical bed and the short instrumental passage about three-quarters of the way through the song. Nevertheless, Hey, Little Girl is one of Icehouse’s most popular tunes and yes, dear reader, I do enjoy it as part of the album’s structure; I’m just unlikely to play it outside of the album’s intended sequencing. 

Street Cafe is one of my all-time favourite Icehouse songs for its soft rock at its very best as Davies knocks his vocals out of the park on this track. Add to that the chosen guitar licks, and shifting rhythm between the verse and chorus, and you’ve got what can only be described as the perfect track. 

Glam is a thoroughly enjoyable dynamic tune infused with energy and a danceable rhythm. Featuring a combination of electronic and rock elements, Glam quickly becomes an earworm (an enjoyable one) that you’ll find yourself humming along to all day.  

Trojan Blue opens with atmospheric synth textures and a slower tempo that perfectly suits the second half of the album. It’s a beautiful song and while never destined to be a hit, it’s most certainly a hidden gem.

One By One is a mid-tempo track with a pulsating rhythm that is addictively good. Yes, it’s another album-only tune, but it’s songs such as this that ensure Primitive Man is a memorable album experience. 

Break These Chains is a killer rock song. If you’re not head-bopping and toe-tapping, or up on your feet bouncing around; you’re listening wrong. While Icehouse has an incredible legacy, Break These Chains is yet another hidden gem that has to be heard firsthand; it’s extraordinary! 

Mysterious Thing flows beautifully in the intended sequencing and adds to the album’s overall atmospheric quality. Album-only tracks are seldom this enjoyable, but if you listen past their well-known hits, you’ll find that Icehouse has much to offer for the music that never hit the radio waves is just as enjoyable, sometimes more so, as some of their better-known tunes.

Goodnight Mr Matthews (USA Re-record) closes the album beautifully. Featuring some of the most magical guitar work I’ve ever been fortunate to hear, Goodnight Mr Matthews will leave you in a reflective mood while also encouraging you to play the album again for it is a rarity when I listen to Primitive Man only once.

Overall, Primitive Man stands as a pivotal album in Icehouse’s discography, showcasing artistic growth and experimentation with a more polished and sophisticated sound. The combination of memorable melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative production makes this record a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans; particularly those of us who are nostalgic for the music of the 80s. Synth-pop has never sounded so good!

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Cold Chisel – Circus Animals (Album Review)

An Australian masterpiece ruined by remastering! 

Yes, dear reader, Circus Animals is, without a doubt, one of the greatest Australian releases of the 80s, but the 2011 remastered edition makes me want to stop playing the album in disgust. Seriously, it sounds as if the life has been sucked out of the recording. The energy is gone. Barnsey might as well be a pop star from the 60s as much of his vocal grittiness is missing and the entire remastered album sounds so shallow that I’m not sensing a soundstage beyond my speakers. There’s certainly no room-filling sound that ensures their pub-rock legacy is maintained.

Adding insult to injury, Circus Animals is presented as an Apple Digital Master; proving that mastering matters far more than the delivery method for the Apple Digital Master process usually brings out the very best in the recording. Not this time! 

I’d turn to Qobuz, but the same mastering can be found there as well, meaning that to fully enjoy this album, I’m going to have to seek out one of the initial vinyl editions, or a pre-remastered CD. While many readers would likely declare that this should have been my first act before penning a review, think for a moment of the new fans, perhaps experiencing Cold Chisel for the very first time, and then suggest to them that they should go and get a beaten up original pressing because the record label, band, and mastering engineer had to reduce the dynamic range, increase the loudness of the recording, thereby making it more fatiguing to listen to. 

I just hope that in their infinite wisdom, someone kept, under lock and key, the original first-generation mastering tapes for a future reissue when this type of mastering style comes to an end. 

Yes, dear reader, I’ve reflected on the negative thus far but I’ll try to refocus my attention to the music itself for it is truly iconic and deserves to be celebrated nonetheless.

Released in 1982, Circus Animals, Cold Chisel’s fourth studio album, would not only top the charts but would deliver a slew of instant classics. Showcasing Chisel at the height of their creativity, Circus Animals perfectly blends the band’s raw energy, poignant lyrics, and a diverse musical palette while featuring one of the most remarkable ballads ever recorded; When The War Is Over. Of course, Circus Animals is far more than a singular song, so join me as I take a look at the individual songs that make up this landmark release.

You Got Nothing I Want is about as raw as Australian rock and roll gets. The song's catchy chorus, coupled with Barnes' powerhouse vocals, sets a rebellious tone, with a defiant and energetic rhythm, that establishes the album's overall attitude.

Bow River is a blues-infused rock masterpiece. It’s a shame that the mastering is lacklustre because this is not only one of the greatest songs Cold Chisel ever recorded, but it deserves to be turned up to 11 without the dreaded listening fatigue entering the equation.

Forever Now has a beautiful melody and arrangement and while some may prefer Chisel’s harder-hitting hits, Forever Now is an incredible ballad-styled tuned with a sing-a-long chorus that is simply captivating.

Taipan introduces a more experimental and atmospheric sound. The instrumental interplay, tribal rhythm, and dynamic shifts in this track showcase the band's musical dexterity, adding a layer of complexity to the album, thereby demonstrating why they are so revered.

Houndog might well be an album-only tune, but don’t let that deter you as this gritty bluesy number, with its driving rhythm, is exceptional.

Wild Colonial Boy is a solid tune, but while the combination of acoustic and electric elements is appealing, I’d argue that the song is too focused on the storytelling aspects. Granted, some people appreciate music for its literal interpretation, but as someone who considers the human vocal as an instrument in the mix, rather than a storytelling device, I find Wild Colonial Boy to be somewhat disjointed. 

No Good For You is a straightforward rock track and hidden gem. The guitar-driven arrangement and Barnes' commanding vocals, along with the backing vocals, are a perfect addition to the album as it has an infectious quality that will stay with you long after the album has ended. 

Numbers Fall has a killer synthetic entrance that morphs into a low-toned gritty bluesy masterpiece. With a blend of rock and new wave influences, Chisel further showcased their willingness to experiment with their sound ensuring that Numbers Fall sounds familiar, yet unique. 

When The War Is Over is, without doubt, one of the best songs ever written and recorded, by anyone, anywhere. Cold Chisel doesn’t get much better than this! Although, John Farnham’s rendition is spectacular. 

Letter To Alan is a fantastic closer that will encourage you to listen to Circus Animals again, but I’d suggest that When The War Is Over would have been a stronger closer. 

Remastering issues aside, Circus Animals is a masterful display of the band's musical prowess and artistic depth. While many consider this album to be Chisel’s greatest, perhaps only ever challenged for that position by East, I find that I would have to agree with that perspective for it is primarily hit after hit and plays like a Greatest Hits release, rather than a standard album. From the powerful vocals to the skilful instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics, this album stands as a testament to Cold Chisel's status as one of Australia's most iconic rock bands. They certainly broke the mould when they chiselled out this masterpiece. 

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Big Scary – Animal (Album Review)

Released in 2016, Animal is the fourth studio album from Big Scary; a musically dynamic Australian duo that offers a mesmerizing exploration of human emotions and experiences, delivered via a unique blend of indie rock, electronica, and heartfelt lyrics. Each song from Animal contributes to the album’s cohesive narrative, one that asks us to transcend our animal instincts and rise above the animal within, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking an immersive musical experience.

Of course, before one can get to the music, the album artwork will draw you in as it’s simply stunning; in a non-traditional manner, that is! It’s eye-catching and stays with you while connecting with your soul on a level that only the visual senses can fully comprehend. If nothing else, it is the perfect visual accompaniment for the music that you’re about to experience. 

While such a visual element would be perfectly suited to the larger vinyl canvas, I’ve yet to pick up a copy on that format. A shame, yes, but with limited funds, my wish list is considerably lengthy as it is. Nevertheless, it gives me something to look forward to and until then I can say with certainty that the lossless Apple Music stream is sonically exquisite. 

If you are interested in seeking the album out on vinyl, you’ll notice an immediate difference to the streaming counterpart as the album is separated into Hunting, Lurking, Resting, and Walking themes; each presented on its own side of the double LP. The CD offers a similar breakdown, but due to the continuous nature of the format, it isn’t quite as unique as that of the vinyl release. For example, if you want to listen to just one aspect of the album, you can listen to that single side. This acts in much the same way as Sigur Rós’ () as it presents the album in a randomised, listener-determined, structure. Whether or not you find this aspect fascinating, it’s wonderful to see independent artists experimenting with their craft. 

While part of the artistic intent of Animal was to allow the listener to play the album in a non-linear manner, this review will focus on the sequencing released via Apple Music as that retains the core artistic intent.

Oxygen is a hauntingly beautiful track that sets the tone for the entire record. With its raw drum beat that harks to the core animal status within us all, to the sonically dry electronic rhythm, you’ll be captivated from the very first note.

Organism is diverse and layered, resulting in a song that is larger than the sum of its parts. Every aspect of Organism is perfect and it amazes me that music this good was made by an independent artist. I say that because Organism, and the entire album, sounds better than most big label/artist releases. 

Double Darkness is a little more subdued and introspective with a vocal tracking that is simply sublime. There’s much to love when Double Darkness comes on, and it’s one of the best songs on the album, but I find it’s the correlations I hear to Paul McCartney’s recordings that are the most interesting aspect here.  

Savior Add Vice transitions seamlessly from Double Darkness and while it has a greater rock vibe than the previous track, the distorted guitars and tempo quickly shift the atmosphere to one that is controlled by a sense of urgency. Additionally, I feel the vocal presentation is flawed on this particular song as it tends to get lost in the mix. While I acknowledge that that approach was likely intended, it results in a somewhat lacklustre performance. 

Lone Bird is a killer song with a perfect rhythm and composition. Incredible!

The Endless Story is thoroughly enjoyable. Not only are the musical elements compelling, but the vocal delivery is equally exceptional.

Flutism suits the album but isn't a track that connects with my soul. It isn't inherently bad, but it’s a little over-produced.

Up And Up And Up is incredibly addictive. I dare you to sit still while listening to this track; I can’t do it. 

Breathe Underwater reduces the tempo considerably and it may result in a shock to the senses; if you’re streaming that is. Breathe Underwater is the first song of the Resting element of the album and if you’ve picked up the vinyl release, the time delay, due to flipping sides, will be enough that you wouldn’t notice the shift as much as those of us who are streaming the album do. Nevertheless, Breathe Underwater is a lovely mellow song.

The Opposite Of Us is a beautiful tune that is not only an ideal fit for the album but flows perfectly through the Resting phase of the record. 

Heaven On Earth is atmospherically stunning. I can only imagine how exceptional it would sound on vinyl, for the Apple Music stream is already breathtaking.

Over Matter has a little too much volume and channel variation that I find to be rather distracting. Yes, it’s a technique but even if I could compartmentalise that aspect, the vocal pacing isn’t in harmony with the other songs from the album. The result is that Over Matter can sound like a garbled mess. Ultimately, however, that doesn’t deter me from the album experience but it is a low point in an otherwise exceptional release. 

Lamina has moody tones that are reminiscent of the opening tracks thereby making it an ideal bookend that compels me to listen to Animal again and delve deeper into Big Scary’s growing catalogue of music. 

From start to finish, Animal is a masterful album that showcases the Australian duo's incredible talent for crafting deeply emotional and sonically rich music that is immersive. Animal really is nothing short of a modern indie rock gem and is one of the best albums released in 2016. 

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Andy Gibb – Flowing Rivers (Album Review)

Released in 1977, Flowing Rivers is Andy Gibb’s debut studio album and is a timeless classic that showcases Andy's remarkable vocal prowess and undeniable songwriting skills. Carrying the weight of expectations that naturally come with being part of such an illustrious musical lineage, Andy not only rose to the occasion but also carved out a unique niche with this remarkable collection of songs.

From start to finish, each of the album's ten tracks carries a unique charm that will immediately captivate you with unforgettable hooks and a vocal delivery that oozes with sincerity. Yes, you’ll hear audible correlations to the Bee Gees when listening to Andy Gibb, but fans of both artists will likely attest that the association is merely complementary and that Andy’s recordings give fans a window into a different style that the Bee Gees simply could not present. From that perspective, Flowing Rivers is a unique masterpiece that shouldn’t exist in the shadows of the Bee Gees for it’s a notable release on its own. 

As it pertains to the availability of the album, sadly physical music fans are not covered as an official reissue, outside of the Japanese music industry, hasn’t been released since the late 90s. Yes, Flowing Rivers can be purchased via iTunes et al, but an artist with such a legacy deserves to have their music remain in print and it’s a travesty that Andy’s back catalogue is only available via digital means. 

Turning our attention to the lossless Apple Music stream, it’s almost certain that this release is derived from prior CD reissues and while it’s adequate, it isn’t going to set your sound system on fire. In reality, Flowing Rivers could be improved with a delicate remaster; not one that merely reduces the overall dynamic range and increases the volume. The album simply needs a little more oomph in its presentation and while some will point to EQ settings, they can often be too harsh; particularly those within the digital realm. The result is that you’re more likely to add a blanket of muddiness to the overall presentation than you are to address any of the existing shortcomings. A skilled mastering engineer is what’s ultimately needed to make this record sound even better than it already is. Nevertheless, it’s all about the songs that ensure Flowing Rivers is so compelling, so join me as I take a look at each song from the album.

I Just Want To Be Your Everything was a chart-topper the world over and there is little doubt as to why, as Barry Gibb penned this masterpiece with the infectious rhythm and catchy melody he’s renowned for. That said, had it not been for Andy’s smooth vocals, you’d find it impossible to sing along to. The result is that I Just Want To Be Your Everything is one of the best songs from the Gibb family camp. 

Words And Music is a lovely and timeless ballad. Describing it as magnificent would be an understatement. It’s certainly one of Andy’s greatest recordings and as music lovers, we are so fortunate to have such incredible music to appreciate and carry with us throughout our lives.

Dance To The Light Of The Morning is a fun and lively tune that highlights Andy’s versatility, but it’s ultimately an album-only tune that was never going to be a standout. While Dance To The Light Of The Morning is unlikely to compel you to listen to Flowing Rivers, the album wouldn’t be the same without it.

Too Many Looks In Your Eyes has a beautiful arrangement that highlights Andy’s emotive vocal throughout. When I suggest that the album and Andy Gibb’s music are hidden gems, it’s songs such as this one that I am referring to, for Too Many Looks In Your Eyes is one of the greatest songs from the 70s. Had it been released as a single, I’ve no doubt it would have gone to the top of the charts; it’s that good! 

Starlight has a dreamy quality about it and while it may get off to a slow start, it builds into a magical piece of music that, again, highlights Andy’s incredible vocal prowess.  

(Love Is) Thicker Than Water is one of Andy’s most memorable and enduring classics and features some beautiful guitar licks courtesy of Joe Walsh. It’s pop meets rock and is so thoroughly pleasing to the senses that you’ll find your body moving involuntarily to the rhythm of this masterful tune. Yes, it could be said that it is dated to the era, but good music stands the test of time and from my perspective, it sounds as fresh today as it always has. 

Flowing Rivers was an interesting choice for the title track for it isn’t the strongest song from the album or within Andy’s overall back catalogue. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a solid tune but isn’t worthy of being the album’s title track as it simply isn’t a standout, nor is it memorable. Still, it’s another of those songs that is enjoyable when listened to in the album’s sequencing; you just won’t look for it outside of the album structure.

Come Home For The Winter flows seamlessly from Flowing Rivers but the musical arrangement and pacing of this tune is far more appealing. You get a touch of pop, and classic rock, along with a country twang; the culmination of which becomes an addictively good tune that you’ll appreciate every time you play the album. 

Let It Be Me is a great little tune. Nothing to write home about, but thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless. 

In The End is a beautiful tune to close the album on as it encourages you to listen to the record again as it leaves you wanting more. It’s also contemplative, so should Flowing Rivers be the final album you listen to in the evening, you’ll be whisked away on a musical cloud of relaxation.  

Flowing Rivers is a timeless, and somewhat hidden, gem from the pop music landscape of the late 70s. Andy's incredible vocal talent, combined with the quality of songwriting on this album, cements his status as a pop icon. Yes, the renowned production team of Gibb-Galuten-Richardson (Barry Gibb, Albhy Galuten, and Karl Richardson) had a role to play here but as you listen to the album, each track showcases a different facet of Andy's natural talent, from his ability to deliver catchy pop hits to his knack for heartfelt ballads. Flowing Rivers is, subsequently, an album that shouldn’t be overlooked.

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AC/DC – For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) [Album Review]

Released in 1981, For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) is AC/DC's eighth studio album and is built upon the success of their previous records; particularly Back In Black. With a collection of hard-hitting tracks that showcase AC/DC’s signature energy and riff-driven style, For Those About to Rock is one of the best albums released in 1981 and still stands as an exceptional entry in the band's discography. 

AC/DC has always had compelling cover art and For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) is no different in that regard. Plus, if you haven’t already, take a look at the animated artwork on Apple Music; it’s fantastic and one of the best examples of the feature. While the physical counterparts will never be able to replicate such wonder, unless a lenticular cover is produced, the vinyl and CD artwork, which is usually embossed, is thoroughly pleasing as well.

Speaking of the Apple Music stream, it’s exceptional! Presented as an Apple Digital Master, it rocks and with plenty of headroom available, you’ll find yourself turning the volume up and rocking out throughout the entire 40-minute masterpiece, with zero fatigue. While I do not doubt that the physical counterparts would be on par with the stream, as they’re derived from the same remastering sessions, when a stream sounds this good it really does make one wonder if they should pick up a physical release. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy For Those About To Rock (We Salute You), one thing is for certain, you’re going to love it.

For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) is the quintessential slow-build opening track that sets the tone for the entire album. With its marching beat, killer riffs, and Brian Johnson’s soaring vocals, you’ll find yourself singing along to the catchy chorus while simultaneously rocking out to this blues-based masterpiece. 

Put The Finger On You is a straightforward rock 'n' roll track with a driving rhythm that captures AC/DC’s classic sound. It may not be a standout in the traditional sense, but Put The Finger On You is one of AC/DC’s hidden gems.

Let's Get It Up offers listeners a fluid transition from Put The Finger On You and keeps the momentum going with a catchy riff and infectious chorus. The lyrics, as most of their songs do, play on suggestive themes that are characteristic of AC/DC's cheeky style.

Inject The Venom, with its heavier edge, is a killer hard rock tune. It’s songs such as Inject The Venom that showcase not only the band’s incredible musicality, and Young’s skill on lead guitar, but that they are far greater than their biggest-selling albums.

Snowballed is a mid-tempo rocker with some memorable hooks and bluesy guitar licks, but it’s one of AC/DC’s most uninspiring songs.

Evil Walks has an incredible rhythm and a menacing riff that captures your soul from the very first note. Your body will move involuntarily to the groove, as you strum your air guitar, all while belting out the chorus as if playing on stage with Malcolm Young to one side and Cliff Williams to the other. Evil Walks is another of AC/DC’s greatest recordings that has rarely received the recognition it deserves. 

C.O.D. is a straightforward rocker with a catchy chorus, but don’t let that deter you for a run-of-the-mill tune for AC/DC would be a hit for any other band.

Breaking The Rules retains AC/DC’s trademark hard rock edge while being a little more melodic. The chorus is particularly infectious and showcases Johnson’s vocal range. It’s one of their songs, with Johnson on lead vocals, where you can understand the lyrics through his trademark growl, thereby making the song even more compelling than it otherwise would have been.

Night Of The Long Knives with its pounding rhythm and aggressive guitar riffs, stands out as one of the album's heaviest, and most enjoyable, moments. The song's dynamic shifts will keep you engaged throughout and while Night Of The Long Knives was never destined to be a stadium-filling tune, as an album-only track, it’s incredible.

Spellbound closes the album on a high note, despite the song being a more mellow and sonically sombre tune. It’s the rhythm, guitar hooks, and Johnson’s vocals that will capture your attention. It’s also the perfect closer as Spellbound doesn’t only compel you to listen to the album again, but if you choose to reflect on what you’ve just heard, you’ll sit in wonder at the masterful musical experience that is For Those About To Rock (We Salute You).

While For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as its predecessor, it remains an exceptional release and is amongst AC/DC’s finest recordings. Full of memorable riffs, powerful vocals, and energetic performances, For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) is often overlooked which is a shame for had it not followed one of the biggest-selling albums of all time, it would have been more highly regarded. Nevertheless, this is one album that is a must-listen for fans of classic hard rock and AC/DC alike.

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Air Supply – The One That You Love (Album Review)

Released in 1981, The One That You Love marked another successful chapter in the Australian soft rock duo's career. Building upon their signature sound of melodic ballads and heartfelt lyrics, this album continues to capture the hearts of listeners with its emotive tunes and strong vocal performances. The result is a record that is not only one of the best albums of their illustrious career, but is what I consider to be amongst the greatest albums released in 1981.

While the music may be exceptional, the album artwork is uninspiring. Seriously, the rear photo of the band, featured on the original releases, would have been far better to adorn the album cover for the hot air balloon on the initial releases, and the series of hot air balloons on the Australian reissue, is about as pointless as you can get. I really should add this album to The Worst (And Most Disturbing) Album Covers Of All Time ranked list, but it almost isn’t worthy of inclusion. Yes, dear reader, I’m extremely critical of this album artwork for it is an immediate deterrent and is unlikely to appeal to anyone, other than the most ardent fans. It certainly doesn’t showcase, or represent, just how outstanding the music is.

As for the sonics of the Apple Music stream, the lossless non-Apple Digital Master is derived from the CD counterpart and is sonically pleasing. Could it be better? Absolutely, but I wouldn’t want an overzealous remastering for the current dynamic range of the recording is already quite pleasant. It could do, however, with a slight boost to the mid and low end of the audio spectrum. Naturally, EQ settings can address this issue, but modern digital options can also be a little too aggressive and sometimes the minor adjustments of a skilled mastering engineer yields better results. 

Disappointingly, much of Air Supply’s back catalogue has remained untouched for decades with CD reissues only showing up within the Japanese music industry. Modern listeners who are not interested in picking up secondhand copies are, subsequently, left with few options outside of streaming and digital download stores. Yes, we need to be grateful that the music remains readily available, but the collector within would prefer that all music remains in print, both physically and digitally, for it gives music lovers a choice and further guarantees cultural heritage. 

Don't Turn Me Away gets the album started with a solid soft rock tune. I don’t, however, feel that it was the perfect opening track for it isn’t as strong as many of the other songs on the album and should have been repositioned in the album’s sequencing.

Here I Am is the song that should have been the lead track for it is much more in tune with Air Supply’s renowned and revered style. Here I Am, subsequently, sets the tone for the rest of the album; one that is filled with memorable ballads, melodies, and harmonies that will appeal to longtime fans and newcomers alike. 

Keeping The Love Alive has a beautiful flow for the verses are simply incredible. Yet, in classic Air Supply form, it’s the addictiveness of the sing-along choruses that are the ultimate highlight as the shift from verses to chorus, and back again, makes for a thoroughly engaging listen.

The One That You Love, the album's title track, is a timeless classic that remains one of Air Supply's most iconic songs and again, as the song reaches the chorus, you’ll feel compelled to sing along.  

This Heart Belongs To Me has an incredible rhythm. That piano entry is exquisite and is the backbone of the song as This Heart Belongs To Me turns into a soft rock masterpiece. It’s certainly reminiscent of the era, and some may suggest it sounds a little dated, but I adore it nonetheless.

Sweet Dreams, by comparison to This Heart Belongs To Me, is subdued, but that need not be a contentious issue for as the song slowly builds, the catchy chorus soars in a manner that only Air Supply can achieve for they are masters of the craft and Sweet Dreams quickly becomes one of the greatest songs of the 80s. 

I Want To Give It All slows the tempo considerably, but the vocal recording and intertwining of harmonies are thoroughly pleasing. While I Want To Give It All was never destined to be a standout tune, it’s songs such as this that make The One That You Love such an exceptional album experience. 

I'll Never Get Enough Of You is another standout that captures the sentiment of endless love. The sincerity of the vocals pairs extremely well with the song’s lyrics. As incredible as Air Supply performs this classic tune, I would love to hear Barbra Streisand cover it, for I feel she would take it to another level entirely.

Tonite is simply gorgeous. While not a standout, per se, as an album-only tune, Tonite is yet another reason why The One That You Love is one of the best albums ever released. 

I've Got Your Love is a brilliant closer that encompasses all elements of each song that came before it. The result is that you’ll feel compelled to play the record again for The One That You Love is one album that could be listened to on repeat indefinitely. 

Overall, The One That You Love is an exceptional album that showcases Air Supply's mastery of crafting emotionally charged soft rock ballads. With a combination of emotions through poignant lyrics, harmonious vocals, and well-orchestrated melodies, listeners will be captivated from the very first note to the last. While some songs stand out more than others, the album as a whole remains a testament to the duo's talent for creating music that is not only timeless but resonates deeply with listeners. If you're a fan of heartfelt ballads and timeless melodies, The One That You Love is a must-listen.

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Tina Arena – Love Saves (Album Review)

Love Saves, Tina Arena’s thirteenth studio album, is a captivating musical journey that showcases the iconic Australian singer's versatile vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Comprised of a collection of songs that revolve around love, compassion, and resilience, Love Saves is Arena’s greatest musical achievement. 

That declaration extends to the recording, mix, and mastering of this release for it is flawless. While it may not be presented as an Apple Digital Master, the Hi-Res Lossless presentation on Apple Music will leave you in awe. The result of such perfection is that one can enjoy the music and not be distracted by production aspects that are unrelated to the songs themselves.

Church is a lovely opener that sees Arena’s gorgeous vocal float atop the musical bed. It is, however, not the strongest song from the album and is therefore surprising that it was chosen as the lead single from Love Saves. While some, perhaps even yourself, may disagree, I simply feel many stronger songs could have been selected to launch Love Saves to Arena’s fans. 

Cry Me A Miracle is magnificent and would have been a stronger opener. It’s musical bliss and Arena’s vocal is so raw and unprocessed that it’s as if she’s in the room with you. 

Outrun The Night continues with the trademark piano-backed style that works so well with Arena’s overall vocal presentation. Outrun The Night has a Lady Gaga feel to it, but that shouldn’t be seen as a deterrent for this is one of Arena’s most beautiful recordings. It’s just that I would love to hear Gaga cover Outrun The Night. 

Can’t Say Anything is a musical throwback to Arena’s 90s era, but with a modern twist. It sounds familiar, yet fresh and magnificent. The hook will compel you and that rhythmic drive, with Arena’s sensational vocal, ensures that Can’t Say Anything will be a memorable standout and an incredible tune should Arena choose to perform it live. 

Devil In Me is a killer song. Your body will move involuntarily, as if controlled by the music, for this is yet another musical and vocal masterpiece from Arena.

Dancing On Thin Ice slows the tempo and is a beautiful ballad. Arena can still hit every note with such incredible control. It goes to show that age is just a number for at 55 years young, Arena’s arguably a stronger and more confident vocalist than at any other time in her illustrious career. Incredible!

Mother To Her Child is another song I’d love to hear Lady Gaga cover. Purists will likely detest that comparison, but it’s suggested with nothing but pure admiration for both of these incredible vocalists. Plus, when a song such as Mother To Her Child is this exceptional, it deserves to be heard, and appreciated, by a broader audience than Arena generally attracts. 

Dared To Love You First is lovely, not a standout, but lovely nonetheless. It’s, for lack of a better term, the quintessential album-only tune. 

Love Saves has a delicate composition and is worthy of the title track position. As with all the songs from Love Saves, Arena’s vocal is recorded so perfectly that you’ll be lost for words. Anyone who has heard Arena’s music will know just how incredible she is as a vocalist, but it is songs such as Love Saves that secure that opinion for there are few vocalists, particularly in the modern era, that can sing with such perfection. 

House is more upbeat and pop-driven, but it’s a great song that’s thoroughly engaging and is a perfect tune for the closing moments of the album. For those of you who pick up Love Saves on vinyl, House is the final song and will likely compel you to play the album again. However, I really appreciate the bonus track on the CD and streaming counterparts as it’s simply lovely.

Danser Sur La Glace is, as I’ve already suggested, a coveted closing tune. Normally I dislike bonus tracks, but this is one example of how to do it correctly. It’s familiar, because it is the French version of Dancing On Thin Ice, but it is uniquely fresh as the language shift allows us to enjoy the song in a purely musical manner; for those of us not well-versed in the French language. Regardless, Danser Sur La Glace is a perfect way to close Love Saves and is so captivating that I find myself playing the album on repeat, for hours on end. 

A modern masterpiece of timeless songs would be an apt description for this 2023 release. From anthemic tunes to soul-stirring ballads, combining powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a diverse range of musical styles, Arena’s artistry shines throughout, ensuring Love Saves is not only one of the very best albums released in 2023, but is Arena’s greatest album to date.  

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