Judging from the very first bar of opening track Sundream, you might think Atlas is just another ‘90s inspired indie-dance album. However, it doesn’t take long before you’re completely swept away, with soothing vocals and uplifting beats that build into an overly contagious rhythm. This is the debut album from Sydney-based trio Rufus, who attracted a lot of airplay with their first few singles, We Left, Paris Collides and This Summer.
The first track here, Take Me, is another instant festival anthem and the rest of the album is equally impressive. To be honest, it’s not as though these guys are doing anything revolutionary or ground-breaking in terms of their sound – but what they do, they do it well. This is the kind of feel-good and inspired music you can enjoy while having a boogie on a Saturday night, or alone cleaning your house on a Sunday afternoon. At times, some of it feels a little basic and rushed – but the continual mix of instrumentals and synth-effects is enough to keep you moving.
The fact that Rufus were added to next year’s Big Day Out lineup before releasing this album is a testament to their talent as musicians. Expect big things.
BY CHRIS BRIGHT
Best Track: Take Me
If You Like These, You’ll Like This: SBTRKT, JAMIE XX
In A Word: Ecstasy
