Review by Chris Lambie.
Faces In The Street – Bring Back Tomorrow (Independent)
Think global, act local. So the saying goes. The sentiment is illustrated by Melbourne-based group Faces In The Street. Their debut album shines a light on the big issues but also resonates with glimpses into the experience of the everyman.
The newly formed trio evolved from acoustic folk duo The Keynes Brothers. The signature multi-instrumental sound of founders John Fraser and Rowan Cole has expanded to source an appealing brew of indie roots notes. John Zak (bass/guitar/synth) has joined up with Fraser (vocals/guitar) and Cole (vocals/mandolin/guitar/mandola). The addition of this ‘third Face’ introduces electric elements of dusty blues and hints of Latin jazz alongside the country/folk repertoire.
It’s a solid set-list of original compositions by Fraser and Cole. The listener is quickly drawn to striking vocal harmonies before noting the considered storytelling. Since being written, the lyrics have escalating relevance in our unravelling social, environmental and political climate. A Henry Lawson poem inspired the band’s name. (‘I can sorrow for the owners of the faces in the street.’) They reflect timeless relatable struggles. Reminders of the value of friendship and watching out for our mates include ‘Hope You’re OK’ and ‘I Don’t Know’. Tracks ‘Bring Back Tomorrow’ and ‘House Falling Down’ offer further empathetic musings. ‘Old To New’ and ‘Together’ bring up rally cries of resistance and action for a fairer world.
Classic folk-driven tracks are organically interspersed with country swing and Tex-Mex flavoured strings. Cath Rutten provides warm harmony vocals on two tracks. Producer Cameron McKenzie adds depth and texture on bass and cello. The album was recorded at Station Place Studios in Glenhuntly, Victoria. The exception ‘Old to New’, engineered by Craig Newman and recorded at Dewey Studios in Moorabbin. Instrumentation is bright and balanced, giving space to the words with an ultimate message of hope and humanity.