Latest
Reviews
Rory Ellis - Two Feathers
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Released to gushing reviews in the UK some months ago, Rory Ellis’ fourth album is another gem.
RORY ELLIS
Two Feathers
Villainous Records
Sometimes you get hold of a new album just knowing it’ll be good; you only have to wonder which tracks you’ll grow to cherish most. Two Feathers is such a product. Released to gushing reviews in the UK some months ago, Rory Ellis’ fourth album is another gem.
He’s a natural story-teller, as Australian as Paul Kelly and as universal as Bob Dylan. Wasting no words, he conveys enough emotion in his no-holds-barred vocals to illustrate his view. He’s a true poet in the style of Kev Carmody and an accomplished guitarist, backed here by some of the best local side men and women in the business.
Two Feathers features stories of family, friendships, life on the road and topics that fire up talk-back radio. His colourful history adds authenticity to the characters we meet.
A repentant Ellis asks ‘Dear Satan’ for forgiveness while ‘Darlin’ Man’ shows that big scary-lookin’ buggers can be unashamedly sensitive. ‘Work’ chugs along with a chain-gang rhythm to rue the day work place ‘agreements’ chained employees to the corporate grindstone.
The Cronulla race riots inspire a plea for brotherhood on ‘Suburban Soldier’. Odes to family are touching and heartfelt. Ellis blends folk and country blues with ease while spicing up the mix with a dash of romance here (Romany strings or elegant placement of horns) and back-beat R&B there (‘No Love’). His delivery may be wistful, cheeky, angry or tender but always honest.
Guests feature long-time off-sider Dave Steel (Dobro, resonator, electric guitar, mandolin, piano), Matiss Schubert (violin), Tim Neal (Hammond) and bvs from Kerri Simpson and Chris Wilson. Also on deck: Barry Stockley, Peter Luscombe, Jeff Raglus and Tim Smyth. As with previous Ellis releases, this one doesn’t scream for attention at first listen, but subtly works its way into your favourites pile.
Chris Lambie
Catch Rory Ellis:
February 15 – The Heritage Hotel Balnarring, Victoria
February 21 – Burrinja Cafe (Roadstories in song with Marisa Yeaman) Upwey, Victoria
February 28 - Pako Festa Geelong, Victoria
February 28 – The Studio - Two Feathers Album Launch, Geelong, Victoria
March 1 Moonee Valley Festival - Two Feathers Album Launch
Back to Reviews