The Beatles’ pop music and the wide spectrum of jazz music at large played an instrumental role in the musical upbringing of Brisbane-based singer-songwriter-interpreter and four times platinum selling Australian songstress, Katie Noonan. This facet of her musical education has never been more evident than in Katie’s new album, Blackbird — the music of Lennon and McCartney.
Joni Mitchell / Little Green
This song is about one of the saddest things, choosing to give your child up for adoption. I can’t imagine the anguish and the pain and the guilt attached to such a decision. But this song is about that and it is beautiful. Somehow it is joyful though, also. It is from the incredible record, Blue, which I really think is a masterpiece. She was so young when she wrote these songs and they are simply amazing.
Herbie Hancock (feat. Tina Turner) / Edith and the Kingpin
This is one of the best vocals I have ever heard. Tina turner absolutely swings her ass off! She sounds like a sexy happening mumma. The band is beautiful: Wayne Shorter, Dave Holland, Vinnie Colluita, Lionel Loueke and Herbie.
Joni Mitchell / Woodstock
This record really is so beautiful and lush and incredible. It is great hearing Joni sing her compositions all these years later, with the years of life etched in her voice to make it so much warmer and deeper. The band is beautiful: Brian Blade and Wayne Shorter sound amazing. And Vince Mendoza’s orchestral charts are so sweeping, epic and gorgeous. This really is a landmark record from someone I consider to be a true artistic icon.
Ray LaMontagne / I Still Care For You
This is a beautiful record that sounds like it could have been made in the 60s, with its shades of Astral Weeks, Dylan and even Otis Redding. You can hear the pain and isolation that he feels in his life but somehow it is not sad. It is more poignant and beautiful. This record has more production values than his past, I think. It somehow sounds more full, lush and epic.
Sia / Not A Day Too Soon
Sia is a beautiful unique creature and I think this is her best record yet. I LOVE this song. Again, she sings from her heart and she makes me feel her lyrics for the first time each time. What a gift! She is kooky and gorgeous.
Augie March / Watch Me Disappear
These guys make heartfelt rock music and I love their new record. Since their first single, Asleep in Perfection, years ago, I have been a huge fan. They make interesting music that takes you on a journey, which is a unique thing. Their new album sounds like a great record to get drunk to!
Lior / I’ll Forget You
I love collaborations. And this is a really great duet between the beautiful Sia Furler and the wonderful Lior. Two unique voices combining to make a great song. Lior has such a beautiful voice and wonderfully unique composing style. I am glad that the rest of Australia has discovered this wonderful talent. I have been a fan for years.
Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu / Bapa
From the moment I heard his voice at the Aria Awards, I was transfixed. I felt he delivered the most moving musical moment of the night. He sings straight from his heart into yours, and that is a rare thing.
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