Most indie fans would run and hide at the mere mention of BMG records, but rest
assured, Augie March does more than turn the tables. Drawing such classic
influences from the likes of Jeff Buckley, the Beatles and Bob Dylan in his folk
days, they can barely put a foot wrong. Sunset Studies sees them create
the quintessentially Australian romance album. As would be inferred, it feels
like twilight, known as the witching hour where the boundaries of good and evil
become blurred. In this sense, the album defines and redefines Australia in both
its present beauty and historical lurking conflicts. Flicking back between past
and present, the life cycle of the country itself and the individual are
represented. Whether relating the delicate relationship of two young lovers in
"There is No Such Place," or the tragedy of war in "Owen's Lament," issues
embedded in ever evolving Australian relationships are held up for critique.
Sunset Studies is an album to hold on to for life, creating some exciting
new avenue for eager poetic minds to wander down with every listen.
In my humble opinion, I believe that Glenn Richards is one of the greatest lyricists of today. In eerie softness, he whispers in rolling tongues sentiments to make the likes of Robert Frost jealous. "Owen's Lament," my personal favorite (as this album is all about being personal) stands out in effect. Throughout Sunset Studies, Richards points out things we'd rather forget in gentle reminders. This is particularly poignant here, when his lonely voice utters "You said 'Kill me a dynasty or our love won't mean a thing." Accompanied by haunting whistling and subtle instrumentation it has a ghostly ambience, almost like viewing actual obituaries of soldiers. It peaks in a crescendo of voices and pounding percussion much like the ups and downs of war itself. I can feel my Goosebumps prickle as the album tapers off to "She covered my body, In a ragged flag and bloody -, O not on your life." The irony is adequately sharp and stinging as the song is an ode to famous WWI Poet, Wilfred Owen and his prized work, "Dulce et decorum est." The timely tumbling of old fashioned pianos aptly guide the album out.
Augie March's quietness speaks loud. Light guitar and soothing wind instrument samples are an ideal backdrop for appreciation of Glenn's impeccable poetry. It's the sort of album you can really grow with and explore time and time again. If Sunset Studies has a major shortcoming, it's this, it appeals to such a narrow group. It's not exciting, it won't have you tapping your feet, but for lovers of verse, it's essential. Unfortunately, standing at a weighty 15 full length tracks means it tends to get a bit tedious and I've found I often forget I'm even listening to it at all. Each track stands alone as epic, but together it's not the sort of album you can digest in one listening, or indeed ten.
1. The Hole in your Roof
2. Maroondah Reservoir
3. There is No Such Place
4. Tulip
5. Tasman Awakens
6. Believe Me
7. Sunset Studies
8. Men Who Follow Spring the Planet 'Round
9. Angels of the Bowling Green
10. Heartbeat and Sails
11. The Offer
12. The Good Gardener (On How He Fell)
13. Here Comes the Night
14. Asleep in Perfection
15. Owen's Lament
More about: Augie March
