The Black Sorrows - Harley And Rose (1990)

The music of Australia's the Black Sorrows is rooted in country, folk, and blues on Harley & Rose. However, the band doesn't allow themselves to be stuck in any one genre and they flirt from one style to another, enthusiastically anchored only by the literate songwriting and tight musicianship displayed throughout. The Black Sorrows, consisting of nine members and numerous guests, are led by vocalist Joe Camilleri, who plays guitar, saxophone and organ (in addition to co-producing). Camilleri also co-wrote all of the songs except for the closing "Calling Card." Camilleri possesses a husky, soulful voice that, at its best, approaches Van Morrison. Linda Bull and her sister Vika share lead on several cuts, most notably the no-nonsense "Never Let Me Go," a brassy blues number featuring horns, congas and harmonica. Harley & Rose is a deep record. There's not a wasted track as they tear through gospel-inflected "Hold It Up to the Mirror," the bar-boogie beat of "House of Light" and the uplifting "Carried by the Light." They also succeed on the slower songs like the wistful "Soul on Fire," with its mournful trumpet passages, and the touching wartime bride's memories on "Rise and Fall." A superb record.