Wireless Records: A Compilation

CD review in Beat, 26th July 2003

This compilation CD, From Melbourne's independent label Wireless Records, features eleven tracks from local talent. It opens with the gloomy lament of Turn off the Light by band Sunny Disposition. This song sounds anything but (sunny I mean) with it's moody feel perfected by the male vocalists low moans and a heavy focus on cello. The second track brings something really different with Shoot the Genie's Only Gets Worse. It's a top notch indie-rock song by the band formerly known as Atreyu. Brimming with fast guitars, light melodies (sung by Kirsty Letts) and an easily likable tune. Following on is the hushed, slow sound of For the Night by four piece Ermintrude and then an upbeat, folk rawk of sorts in Glory (Misunderstood) by another all guy four member band, Walken.

Just when I was starting to think that the compilation's prerequisite was having to be a four piece, along comes track five, the first song featured by a solo artist. Brett Weldon's Go Round is a song made up of acoustic guitar and distinctive Jeff Buckley like drawls and moans, while band Kanvas Grey's So Much To Learn displays a heap of energy with its memorable catchy rhythm and passionate vocals. Plankton's Experiments in Space is different altogether, not just due to its non-existent use of vocals. Their song is quite at odds with the general 'rock' feel of the album, drawing on synths and effects instead and producing a song that is quite original sounding.

All girl band Don't Mess With The Pony rely very much on their voices on Inner Sense, with shared duties allowing for a really solid sound. Ben's Own also have this on their track Even, with singer Emily Trembath providing angsty rock-chick vocals against a background of frenzied beats. Ain't Gonna Fight It by band Old Kent Road is a traditional type of rock song while With the Stars, the solo track by Kirsty Letts (who pops up three times on the record including playing bass with Sunny Disposition), making her a definite in a one to watch category. This compilation can be picked up for free at any Wireless Records events and is a worthwhile listen.

-Samantha Allemann

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