This gorgeous 14-track debut from Queensland-based writer and singer, Rachel Koster, is one outstanding release with nary a dud track to be found. A writer who has penned numbers either for, or with, Stuart Fraser (Noiseworks) and even a couple of Idols, Koster’s debut stands up against any and is already in my top five for 2007.
This ain’t a teenage angst nor novelty album, mind. This is an adult one, in for the long term with writing that is first class: “I’ve considered slipping back to bed, for winter hibernation, but a bird on my windowsill, has caught my full attention,” this is the opener, Just Sing My Life Away, a medium-tempo track that with its production shouts quality. The musical genre Koster has generated with musos such as Fraser, Bruce Haymes, John Watson and Steve Hadley (from The Renee Geyer Band) is a wonderful fusion of pop, country (Maybe), lite-blues and Norah Jones-style jazz (A Beautiful Love and Little Girl).
The ballad, The Sound Of Love Leaving, is a superb ode to distressing break-ups and quick exits. There’s even a funk-lite feel on Candy Coloured Lunchwrap, a quirky little ditty about childhood and, dare I say it, the joys of discovering white lies in the greaseproof paper. One of my other faves is Hectic Fool, wonderfully laid-back with great brush snare and piano carrying the melody.
Koster’s voice is a joy to listen to, allowing the listener to slip into the world of the singer, appreciating the material being presented. This is helped by the production that never allows the music nor the voice to dominate. Cannily enough, the producer is Ms Koster herself – top job.
- Mark Liebelt