Back in the 90’s, the Australia-based band, “The Violets,” was formed. They have a one-of-a-kind sound that fuses pop, prog, indie rock, and alt-rock. Sadly, they went on a long hiatus after personal and contractual issues disrupted their upward momentum. But they’re back now and ready to invade the 21st century with their nostalgic, authentic sound, infused with modernity. Their album, “Smoke, Mirrors & other half-truths,” is what that combination sounds like.
The remarkable quartet have an obvious chemistry that makes their songs hook in both ears and hearts. Their album, “Smoke, Mirrors & other half-truths,” contains seven singles that endure for half an hour but linger in your mind for much longer. It opens the wounds of a broken heart and heals them slowly with their magnificent musicianship.
The album opens with “Sideways,” which has appealing guitar chords and incredible, warm vocals with a melancholic feel to them that personify the moving storytelling in the heartbreaking lyrics. Adding to the heartache, an upbeat flavor in “Love lies in the rain.” The intro is delightful; it made me think, “Oh, we’re about to hear a happy, love song!” But the joke’s on me; it’s just a well-disguised longing single. The melody makes you want to sway lightly, and the solo part is addictive, and the harp was a great addition. You can really feel the 90’s ambiance in this one.
“My whole world” kicks off with layered vocals. All the elements work together to make it stand out; the stellar bass, the vibrant percussion, the fresh guitar riffs, the velvet, vivid vocals with an outstanding performance, and the relatable lyrics for all of those who fell in love hard and fell out of it even harder.
Now that we are halfway through with “Shaken & Stirred,” you can tell for sure how the singles have diversity. This one has a feminine touch, with the guest vocalist, Michelle Cahill, singing the two lines’ chorus. It’s a cool, chilling vibe that lasts for four minutes, with lyrics portraying a cinematic scene that entices you to want to know how it ends with the charismatic singing. The shimmering guitar lines build a bridge between nostalgia and modernity.
“All went south” has a masterful arrangement with an impressive twist, making the single go up high. It’s another amazing prove that the instrumentation and vocals mash together to create an atmospheric sonic. Now, when all goes south, you could have a pleasant, vibrant company. Going bleak again with “April’s fool” and its mellow, dark melody featuring a slow tempo. It’s like, yeah, I tried to be sarcastic and act like I’m fine with all of this, but I’m not. It’s just April’s fool! It’s the shortest single with the most poignant performance.
Wrapping it all up with “Here I am” with sincere lyrics, tender, moving vocals, and endearing rhythms that play on your heart’s strings. The solo part rocks powerfully, it’s attention-grabbing, and it compels you to repeat it again and again.
This is the album that makes you want to put on your headphones and go on a walk with yourself, the moon, and the breathing air. Or simply close your eyes in bed. It’s the kind of companion that will stick with you anyway.
