I must admit, I do like me some Angus Stone, and I also like me some Julia Stone, but I’ve always thought despite the merits of their solo ventures that they worked better as a team. This self-titled LP is their third outing together, and it’s easily the most accomplished and fully formed either Stone has sounded.
The Australian siblings have both flirted with Americana before, but here they embrace it in a much more fully-dimensional fashion. With industry icon Rick Rubin on production duties, the brother and sister duo really bring the best out of each other on all fronts. Whether one is leading the vocal charge with support from the other or they’re working in tandem, the melodic presence and chemistry between the two is wonderful from start to finish.
Musically and stylistically, the record is more robust as well – granted a lot of the instrumental focus is on acoustic noodling and accompanying drum beats — but the pair isn’t afraid to throw in keys, strings and atmospheric textures as well. Although the sounds on show are impressive, it’s what Angus and Julia do with them that makes the album such a joy. Outside of the tender, melodic and picturesque vibes of the album from early on, there’s a lot of emotional bruising under the surface. Tracks like “Death Defying Acts” and “Get Home” not only add a nocturnal tone to the record, but lend a streak of sorrow to its emotional palette as well. Their brief flirtation with country rock is also a notable change that works tremendously well. With a pulsing drum beat, a more strained vocal delivery and some subtle but distinct fretwork in it’s arsenal, “Little Whiskey” is the kind of thing you’ll be lapping up if, like me, you occasionally yearn for that early Kings of Leon sound.
These little changes to the duo’s formula combined with their more familiar traits makes this such a standout release for the Stone family. Whether you’re unacquainted with the two or you’ve been long awaiting their return, you won’t be disappointed in the least with this re-energized approach.