One of Australia’s favourite folkies has given his fans good reason to be happy – it’s been five years since Hanlon’s last album, and new offering Where Did You Come From? has proven to be well worth the wait. All through this collection, there are the clever turns of phrase and snappy melodies we’ve come to expect, but also enough depth in the songwriting for those who prefer lyricism over the smart stuff.
Second track and lead single, When You Go, is something of an instant classic, and very much in the mould of vintage Hanlon with its understated delivery and sparse instrumentation. This album’s no one-trick pony though, instead taking a few twists and turns through varying sonic palettes and genres, like the spooky blues of opener Salvation Army and the lovely Halley’s Comet, 1986, which sounds like Paul Kelly singing a lullaby in a cardigan.
The only criticism is that I wasn’t really surprised by much, but it’s more because of Hanlon’s uniquely recognisable style than any lack of inspiration on his part. And with songwriting this good, why bother to re-invent the wheel? Dazza’s delivered a catchy, intelligent record with enough detail in its meanderings to keep your interest on repeated listens. He’s been carving his own niche in the Oz music landscape for quite some time now, and this new addition will please the long-time fans and probably garner a few new ones too.
BY IVA BOEHNER
