Hook-driven? This Takes the Cake
I think I've already reviewed an Australian artist so I'm fresh out of thematic stereotypes to start this with. But while I'm breaking the fourth wall, I'm actually starting to sweat that I might have to review a song on it's own merit and not mask my own inadequacy through reviewing a song on it's own merits.
So here goes.
Joel Sarakula. Just take a moment to say his surname out loud. Feels good, doesn't it, those four perfect syllables. That's kind of the idea of Bohemian, delivered in a way that I Am Finn would but with a more repetitive slant on it.
It's a simple whistlealong track and for all of the sweet piano and vocal work, its' begging out for a little variation. A key change or a new instrument. Something. Sarakula opts for chorused vocals which have a limited effect on the song's appeal. It might be that at under three minutes, he realises the tracks' limitations. Whatever your thoughts, you'll be whistling this and pronouncing each of Boh-em-i-an's syllables. When the powers that be do break out the "Sounds of Camden" double CD (not available in the shops), this will definitely be one of the featured songs.
B-Side Present Tense has a bit more depth on it, the staccato piano work adding some urgency to the track, rolling along at a decent pace as the Sydney native sings something of a warning track. In some ways, this is a perfect complement to Bohemian, in what must be an introduction to his work to a lot of people, hearing this side to him shows that he isn't just a party anthem singer.
Bohemian is that scene in Anchorman when Brick is walking unmolested through a riot holding a hand grenade. There's so much potential here but it needs a gear change somewhere. You're definitely going to hear him while the sun's out, asking "don't you want to be a part of my plans?" As much as I do, Joel Sarakula needs more strings to his bow.