Listen up class: no talking at the back and spit out that gum. Today’s lesson incorporates history, music, a multi-talented Melburnian and a debut album featuring one of the finest female voices in the country right now. Roman mythology 101 tells us Janus was the god of all beginnings, synonymous with doorways and the opportunities they present. He also had two faces to look towards both the past and present, and at times sported a hipster beard. All of these elements relate to the form and feel of Thompson’s excellent debut LP (besides the facial fuzz, of course).
Following up her work with GL, Axolotl, the Bamboos and Dorsal Fins, Janus allows Thompson to flaunt her more-than considerable vocal talents in a solo setting. The titular god’s two-headed nature is reflected in that there are several styles and moods present throughout the ten tracks. Neo-psychedelia, ‘80s synth-pop, sparse balladry, and layers of distorted, dreamy loveliness provide the backdrop to Thompson’s tuneful talents.
Hazy opener Drift and the Spector-esque Away Too Long seduce and spellbind, while first single Arcade is a honey-drenched slice of synth-pop that oozes contradiction, and things get weird on the six-minute Taller. However, the songs benefit most when Thompson gives her vocals some oomph, such as on the second single I Go Over.
Now, thisisn’t a sunny synth-pop record by any stretch; there’s misery in many of the lyrics (particularly the album closer Losing You), but despair has never sounded so good. With Janus, Thompson has flung open the door of her solo career and it’s open for students of music to enjoy. Do your homework and get on board.
BY PAUL MCBRIDE
