Meter (Laughing Outlaw; 2- CD)
Perry
Keyes drives taxis in Sydney, hence the title. On the strength of the songs on
this CD, he will be able to give up the day job, if he hasn't done so already.
The first song, 'Sweaty Sneakers' is an unlikely name for a love song,
but is an absolute belter. It starts with a memorable riff and a big sound,
and by the time the "She's so wonderful, you know" chorus comes
round you are completely hooked. As soon as the voice comes in there's
no avoiding the fact that Keyes rootsy style is highly reminiscent of Bruce
Springsteen in tone, phrasing and pitch. The band performances are strong
throughout. Bek-Jean Stewart is not only a fine drummer who really drives the
songs, she also adds great vocal harmonies.
The songs have intelligent and interesting subject matter which also draws
Springsteen comparisons – Perry sings about the working class chancers,
dreamers and losers of inner city Sydney (as opposed to Noo Joisey). The
powerful drums, the inspiring choruses, the big keyboard fills, the slower,
folkier, quieter numbers; - all have echoes of The Boss.
O.K. so it used to be a disadvantage to be compared to a world famous artist.
Does a Springsteen comparison mean this album is derivative? Nope. Does it
mean this album is no good? Not at all! This album bristles with quality, well
produced songs, from the anthemic 'Growing Up In the Dark Is Wrong' to the wry
lyrical observations of inner city life in the slower 'Service City' and
'NYE'. Special mention for a song titled 'Discount Bottle Store'. Different
qualities of the songs become apparent on each play. With songs as strong as
this Keyes doesn't have to worry about comparisons with anybody.
www.laughingoutlaw.com.au
Phil Suggitt