After the success of Dan Sultan’s second album, Get Out While You Can, expectations for his third studio album Blackbird were extremely high, and they were delivered in spades. Named after the famous Nashville studio in which it was recorded, Blackbird showcases Sultan’s soulful and charismatic vocals, delivering an impressive array of Aussie rock tunes and heartfelt ballads.
From the groovy rock beats of radio favourites and first two singles Under Your Skin and The Same Man to emotional ballads Nobody Knows and Gullible Few, Blackbird takes you on a memorable musical journey. Can’t Blame Me is another favourite which would be a good choice for a third single. Such is the strength of this album, that most of the tracks would be well placed on radio. Some of the lyrics on Blackbird have a distinct Australian theme; this is particularly evident on Kimberley Calling, a track that leaves you wanting to explore the West Australian region.
Dan Sultan has matured artistically and this is clearly evident on Blackbird. This album has delivered that classic rock and soul sound of his that we have come to know so well, which is one of the many reasons why Blackbird is so appealing.
BY ALI BIRNIE
Best Track: Kimberley Calling
If You Like These, You’ll Like This: HUNTERS AND COLLECTORS, JASON ISBELL
In A Word: Groovy
