Last year, The Joe Kings joined the ranks of Tame Impala, Birds Of Tokyo, Little Birdy and The Panics when they were awarded the ‘Best Newcomer’ WAMI award. But, with their energetic, greasy blues-rock sound, they stand out for their bravery of tackling traditional guitar rock in an electronic era.
With a huge, dedicated fan base in WA, the band decided to take the plunge and spread their wings, moving to Melbourne earlier this year. Love Strikes is their first release since the move, and it’s damn well shit-hot.
Opener Leave My Mind Behind is a more accessible version of their usual raucous blues, so it’s a nice and fresh introduction to the recording. However, Got A Letter For You once again visits a heavier style of blues with a distinct ’60s feel. It’s a rollicking, vigorous mood-lifter track, with too much attitude to be ignored. Singer Jack Stirling’s voice is sharp, think Little Richard, but with inflections like Jerry Lee Lewis. It’s truly amazing.
However, I Left My Home Too Young takes a different, mellow acoustic tack – a nice change for The Joe Kings. Exemplifying their versatility, it’s a sweet, remorseful song that craftily builds and then falls like an unpredictable rollercoaster.
Closer and title track Love Strikes is where the band really hits their mark and sound most comfortable. Hendrix-esque guitars matched with Stirling’s clear bearing-all lyrics are an infallible combination.
Ultimately, this is a young, talented bunch of wild-haired guys that appreciate blues of old, but understand the importance of fresh ingredients to concoct a gutsy, simmering guitar-strewn stew for a new generation.
Best T rack: Got A Letter For You
If You Like These, You’ll Like This: THE BLACK KEYS
In A W ord: Rowdy
