Spendour Pick #1: Oh Mercy

When I encountered Oh Mercy at SITG 2010, they were playing a few tracks that would feature on the now released Great Barrier Grief (2011). At Splendour I could recall hearing a fantastic track which featured a gorgeous piano twinkle and the unforgettable line “I’m a single man, don’t fuck up my plans” which I now know is the swaying romantically unromantic “Let Me Go”.

Unsurprisingly when I had Great Barrier Grief in my hot little hands I had to get listening immediately. To be perfectly honest, my initial enthusiasm was tempered slightly on my first listen. What I then labeled as disappointment was more accurately my short comings as a music listener. First time round I missed gems like the standout chorus in “On The Run”, the subtle preaching turned friendly advice of “Mercy Valley”, the Aussie classic living within “Hold Out Your Hand” and the perfection in the lullaby come down of “Doldrums”.

Gow’s music is much the same as his on-stage demeanour; initially strange to encounter, delightfully unassuming of its own greatness and evermore endearing as time passes.

From all corners, the Paul Kelly comparisons are inevitable as there are few artists who are such engaging story tellers and equally so richly Australian. I’ve only been to Melbourne once but listening to Gow makes it clear he has the place running through his veins, in fact I’d go so far as to say this type of album could only be made by someone influenced and enchanted by the unique pulsating magic of Melbourne. 

“Stay Please Stay” is the opening track and while perhaps its toe-tapping quality overshadows the songs sweeter take on heartbreak, it typifies Gow’s ability to express and amaze. 

Great Barrier Grief is not an album as much as it is a relationship narrative that Gow doesn’t want us to enter into at 1000 miles, it’s a commitment that needs careful consideration.

Great Barrier Reef is out now through EMI.

The White Boys will be attending SITG 2011 as will the delightful sounds of Oh Mercy. We'll be giving you all the low down on the best cuts in the lead up to SITG 2011 as well as covering the event itself!

Website: Splendour In The Grass.

Also: Good friend and amazing blogger Kaisha did a fantastic review of Boy & Bear on her blog, Far From This Mocking World last year. If you want to know what to expect from them live @ SITG 2011.  Click To Read.