I have been hanging to hear Newcastle’s roots/blues/rock five piece, Benjalu’s new EP for a while now, and after doing so, it has not failed to deliver in any way, shape or form. It’s the fourth release for these guys after Shadows in the Sun (2011) which put the guys firmly on the musical map with its uplifting, cruisy roots vibe. The new EP, the eclectic, diverse yet strong, The Battle, sees the lads continue to progress as songwriters, with singer Ben Gumbleton’s tenor voice ageing like a fine red wine. I’ve been fortunate to see Benjalu about five or six times over the past few years and each time they continue to produce the goods.
The new EP opens up with the title track, a moving piece of music, with the tone reminiscent of Steven Stills. This band can defy genres, and they does so effortlessly without seeming contrived. All the lads are consumate professionals. ‘Way to the Coast’ is a doozy. A bluesy, groovin’, roadtrain underlined by Anthony Morris’ driving, almost hypnotic bassline. I played this song about five times, and each time I kept turning up the stereo ’til it could go no higher. I had heard ‘Little Darling’ on the radio a few weeks back and knew it was a Benjalu song. I hear many influences in the guys sound and songwriting styles, and this track is no exception with elements of Tracy Chapman, Neil Young, Josh Pyke all shining through. Guitarist Luke Elsley and drummer Nick Cook highlight on ‘Marching Choir’, creating a musical wonderwall for guest backing vocalist and all round nice guy, Nick Saxon. ‘Rise and Shine’ takes a step back in tempo with minimal guitar, and Gumbleton’s and Saxon’s voices delivering a truly heartfelt song. The EP closes with my personal fave, the somewhat sombre but strangley uplifting ‘Sugar Man’.
All I can say is buy the EP, go and see these guys live and be enchanted by the vibe that is Benjalu. Good stuff indeed.
8/10
Reviewer: Adam Barbuto