The first time you set your eyes on the album cover of Dope Lemon’s newly released album Smooth Big Cat, you’ll know you’re in for a weird but wonderful treat.
The album begins with one of the more upbeat songs Hey you, and from the first hypnotic bass line and furry creatures that feature on the music video, you get a feeling for what the album has in store.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lm8UbnYqSFE
Angus Stone, better known for his work as part of Australian indie folk gods Angus and Julia Stone (the artists behind hit songs Big Jet Plane & Chateau), has recently released his second solo album under the name Dope Lemon, three years after his successful debut album, Honey Bones.
However, this album is probably a little different to anything you have ever heard. The hazy, seducing voice of Stone followed with his intoxicating use of instruments, will transform you to a universe of calm and relaxation.
The album consists of 10 eclectic songs that follows the journey of a big cheeky furry cat, which Angus describes as his alter-ego character.
If Stone’s ability wasn’t respected enough in the musical world, the fact he wrote, recorded, played, produced and mixed every song on the album within a month, in his own little cottage in Byron-Bay, takes him to another level.
The title track of the album Smooth Big Cat and the final song on the album Hey man, don’t look at me like that offer psychedelic experiences that you may never have felt before.
At the beginning of Smooth Big Cat, we hear the use of what sounds like a 19th century record playing, with your mind instantly taken to the times of horse and carts and ballroom dancing. Stone then brings his own quirky twist with guitars, bass, soft drums and even a cheeky xylophone, that makes you fall deep into the song.
Hey man, don’t look at me like that on the other hand, may be one of the most unusual songs you will ever listen to. It sounds like it has been recorded on a Nokia phone in 2001, and we are teleported to Stone’s cabin in Byron Bay with a female companion. From here we can feel the romance in the room as the tender harmonica and Stone’s blissful voice makes its way into her soul.
if you aren’t into the indie music scene, this album can feel a little bit repetitive but guarantees a song to kick your feet up and listen to. If you have previously been fond of the relaxing beachside vibes, then I have found something special for you.
My rating:
4/5 stars.
