Indie rock band The Jezabels have released their second album ‘The Brink’ a couple of years after the success of their debut album ‘Prisoner’, which saw them take out a bunch of awards namely ‘Best Artist’ at AIR Independent Music Awards, as well as 8 ARIA nominations.
The album explores the many highs and lows the band has experienced, and the tracks are testament to both their personal feelings and experiences. Such emotion and conviction is portrayed through not only the vocals, but through also the engaging tight musicianship of the band and outstanding production. It is an album you can truly connect with, knowing exactly what they were feeling when writing the songs.
Coming off of a huge tour of in excess of 180 shows may seemingly be the cause for the lows, but it’s actually the ‘lows’ that always come when they are not playing. Their love of performing live is what makes them tick. Having contemplated giving up after a year off, they rose above it and began writing again, really harnessing both the high and low points and thus developing an epic story through their music.
Not your typical rock album, the record provides 11 catchy tracks that grab you and lure you in from the very first note. The lines are slightly blurred between different styles of music, but nevertheless it is really enjoyable to listen to with its cool, soothing tones.
With ‘The Brink’ as their opening title track, The Jezabels produce some lush sounds with ‘Beat to Beat’ being one of my favourite tracks on the album, but picking an actual favourite is hard to do! ‘The End’ displays the beautiful melodic tones of Hayley. She has an impressive vocal range, which elicits an outstanding and unique style.
With some very cool riffs by guitarist Sam Lockwood, mixed with the sweet sounds of Heather Shannon on keys, and superior drumming by Nik Kaloper, the band obviously has a solid chemistry. They are extremely tight as an outfit and this coupled with the solid production has enabled them to record a brilliant album.
The Jezabels like to communicate ideas with simplicity in their style of writing. The album delves deeply into what they want out of life and the ultimate search for happiness.
For a style that is maybe a bit alternative to me, The Jezabels have won me over. I highly recommend this album and I’m looking forward to their next one.
Reviewed by Lisa Mathews
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