Tracks Of The Week 13.12.13 - GigslutzGigslutz

Aussie singer-songwriter, Courtney Barnett, delivers infectious garage-rock with an edge. Although I’ve only recently discovered her, 2013 saw the release of Barnett’s second EP, and most recent single ‘History Eraser’ has received much international critical acclaim. She also has her own record label, ‘Milk! Records’ – a pretty impressive feat for someone of just twenty five years of age.

With raw, uptempo instrumentation and conversational vocals delivered with her endearing Aussie twang, ‘History Eraser’ is a woozily charming offering, wittily recalling tales of every day life. With hints of my favourite country songstress, Sheryl Crow, Barnett appears effortless in her ability to create addictively catchy pop songs; but this lethargic wit is what makes her so appealing. With a skilful and honest songwriting style, reminiscent of the likes of the great Dylan, I’m pretty excited to find out what this young, and modestly captivating, artist will come up with next.

Whilst I’m normally reluctant to consider any Foo Fighters covers as noteworthy (noone compares to Grohl and co. obviously…), this unlikely tribute to my favourite song is pretty special. Jaws’ take on ‘Everlong’ is not trying to be the original, in fact it couldn’t be more different… And that’s why I like it. With sporadic vocals and floaty, atmospheric, Swim Deep-esque synthy riffs, Jaws have created a dark, ethereal take on the Foos classic. What it lacks in thrashing momentum and general ‘Grohl-ness’, it more than makes up for in originality. Definitely worth a listen, even if – like me – you are Foo Fighters snob…

Taken from the forthcoming new album, singer songwriter Simone Felice’s latest song Molly-O! sees additional vocal contributions from Wesley Schultz and Jerimiah Fraites of The Lumineers. An upbeat, heartfelt country ballad, Molly-O! is strewn with catchy refrains and foot tapping beats. A song ‘where we get to go off the rails a bit’ , Felice’s latest offering is filled not only with characteristically country riffs and his gruff American drawl, but with flamboyant horn interludes and harmonious accordion melodies. A perfect antidote to those winter chills.

Simone Felice’s forthcoming new album, Strangers is set for release in the UK on March 24th, whilst you can get you hands on ‘Molly-O!’ now.

And if it’s a bit of Americana you’re after, then new Bath band Carousels & Limousines may be just up your street. Current single ‘17s’ is filled with the distinctive, husky vocals of Sam Gotley, accompanied by retro rock riffs, jingle- jangle melodies and crashing drums. Drawing on inspiration from the likes of The Boss and Ryan Adams, ‘17s’ is a catchy, romanticised tale of teenage longing; a gentle reminder that soul-filled country-rock lives on. Carousels and Limousines have thus succeeded in creating a refreshingly rejuvenated blast from the past to take us hurtling full speed into the new year.

If you like the sound of this, then worry not – there’s ten more tracks where that came from… Carousels & Limousines’ album ‘Home To Andy’s’ is available to buy now from their bandcamp page.