Russell Morris has become well known as a great storyteller on the back of the release of Sharkmouth, and he has done it again with its sequel Van Diemen’s Land. It is evident through the detailed lyrics that he has spent quality time researching wonderful Australian stories and national myths, and constructing them into a collection of stunning folk and blues tracks.
Throughout the whole album, Morris’ voice doesn’t waver as he adapts his vocals to each individual song and admirably clearly enunciates the stories through the lyrics. As each track is an unfolding story, they too have their own identity within the musicianship accompanying Morris.
The chemistry is electric and complementary between Morris’ voice and the guitars in ‘Van Diemen’s Land’, ‘Witch of Kings Cross’, and ‘Slide On The River’. The production of ‘Sandakan’ is unique and with the simplicity of being stripped back with simple guitar riffs and trombone fills are beautiful. The transition between songs is done eloquently and smooth, for example, the more significant vocal and dominant drums of ‘Loch Ard Gorge’, and the mellow and bluesy tones of ‘Burning Rodney’ do not sound out of place but characterise the movements of the stories.
Showcasing the spirit and history of our country, this is yet another of Morris’ projects to go out and add to your collection.
8/10
Reviewer: Courtney Laura