This is the first time in awhile that I’ve sat up and paid real attention to Missy Higgins work.
It’s not because her work between her stunning debut and now has been bad, it’s just this album captured my imagination.
There’s a new kind of energy that has come from this project that I can’t quite put my finger on, but it’s created a really magical album – no mean feat in this day and age.
‘Solastalgia’ is Missy’s fifth album and as per the presser from her label, “refers to the existential crisis people feel when confronted by seismic environmental change so as the word suggests, there actually is a bit of an apocalyptic theme that runs through many of the new tunes”. In simple terms, there’s a bit less mush and a lot more outside-in thinking. And I like it.
The first song released from this project, ‘Futon Couch’, offered a really fresh sound for Missy. Light and breezy it feels like a summery tune which you could blast with the windows down. A bit late now, but save for a summer road trip next year if you didn’t get the chance this year. That lightness is what captured my attention but while it’s on this song, it doesn’t flow through every tune.
‘Cemetery’ takes a bit of a darker turn lyrically, but is well balanced by the arrangements. I often talk a lot about having variety on an album to keep it interesting for the listener and I feel like in this instance she gets that balance right.
Switching between some of the more moody songs and more light ones, I enjoy this from start to finish.
For me where Missy creates the magic is in the subtlety of the piece.
Overall she has created a collection of songs which are interesting, dynamic and lyrically intriguing. It makes for an enjoyable listen and being an Australian artist, she makes me proud to see her create such high-quality work.
Missy Higgins should continue to be celebrated as one of our modern storytellers.
I enjoyed her take on the state of the world on ‘Solastalgia’.
VERDICT : 4/5.
MUST LISTEN : Cemetery, 49 Candles, Red Moon.
Australia's first stop for pop!