On The Attractions of Youth, Barns Courtney has re-recorded a few tracks that were present on his debut EP. In fact, every track off The Dull Drums EP made the cut and there is definitely no slacking off.
The Attractions of Youth is a succinct balls-to-the-wall rock/pop listen and has been stuck in my head for days. Throughout its 14 tracks Courtney hits the mark again and again. On tracks such as ‘Hands’, you’ll be reminded in the chorus of the first time you heard Kings of Leon and in ‘Hobo Rocket’, the electric guitar will remind you of ‘E-Pro’ from Beck’s 2005 offering, Guero.
Let’s be honest for a moment though, album reviews are quite subjective. You’re either going to love or hate The Attractions Of Youth. Yet there is a lot to be adored. Quirkiest moment of the album goes to ‘Hobo Outside Tesco, London’ which features a friend from the street rapping over juicy electro drumbeats and smooth vocal melodies. It’s still hip to get around Courtney’s tunes and I suggest you do, because when his debut Australian tour is eventually announced, this will be the hottest ticket in town. You have been warned.
