From hidden gems to nostalgic favourites.
In shaping the terrain of independent Australian music for the past three decades, Guy Blackman’s influence and figure is undeniable.
From working alongside The Cannanes, The Goon Sax, Twerps, Dick Diver, Laura Jean, Sweet Whirl, and The Stevens, a lot of Blackman’s passion is indebted to his eternal pursuit and love of music.
We spoke to the Chapter Music Co-Founder about what records have been alongside him in his journey so far.
Keep up with the latest music interviews, news and reviews here.
The record everyone needs to hear
One that I always try to spread the word about is The Green Pajamas’ Summer Of Lust. Amazing lo-fi psychedelia from Seattle in the mid-’80s, as good a record as anything way better known.
The record that showed you how to be adventurous in music
A Love Affair With Nature by The Cannanes from 1989. This is Australian independent pop music that is eccentric, heartfelt but not sappy, playing around with arrangements and instrumentation, each member getting their turn to shine. It set a benchmark for me that hasn’t been beaten yet.
The soundtrack to your early 20s
Probably the record above, or else a bunch of records by Yo La Tengo.
The overlooked local record
I might be cheeky and suggest something from the Chapter back catalogue – hard to know where to start though. Jessica Says’ album Do With Me What U Will (2017) is a neglected modern classic, Laura Jean’s A fool who’ll (2011) has a song about Australian culture on it (called Australia) that should be taught in all schools!
The record that reminds you of being in love
Ha, any song or record I’ve made in the last 26 years cause they’re all about my boyfriend.
The record you’ve recently discovered
Love Comes Well Armed by Tom Yates from 1973. An English folkie guy who is great in his own right but this album is transfigured by working with one of my all time heroes, Duncan Browne (who deserves to be as famous as Nick Drake).
Yates covers a song ‘Dear Life’ that isn’t on any of Duncan Browne’s own albums and it’s a total ’70s folk rock marvel. I’ve been listening to this pretty much non stop in self isolation in Perth waiting to get out so I can see my family.
Check out the first instalment of our ‘So, what’s it to you?’ series with ORB’s Zak Olsen here.
