Adelaide Duo ‘Lily And The Drum’ Release Their Rocking Roots And Blues Album “Welcome Change” – CD Review

Lily And The Drum: Welcome Change Welcome Change is the latest CD release from the prolific and very listenable Lily And The Drum. Lily (guitar and vocals) and The Drum (drums) formed a while back and comprise what has become quite a common arrangement for duos in these modern times. A line-up consisting of one guitar and a drummer seems to work quite well, sonically speaking. They have been gigging relentlessly since forming, playing metropolitan and regional shows throughout South Australia and Victoria. These two have worked together on other musical projects, so it is no surprise that the 11 numbers featured on this album present a fluency and assurance that comes from knowing each other well. As with some of the duo’s other collaborations, the album has, at its core, a solid foundation of rocking roots and blues. It has a familiarity, but it’s definitely not music-by-numbers. Both lyrically and musically, there’s a great deal of skill and craft that has gone into the writing, arranging and performing of the majority of the tracks included here.  Passionate Believer opens proceedings with its lurching blues, wah-guitar, and powerful vocals. There’s an echo of Hendrix at the beginning of the slower I Feel So Free, which includes some pleasing guitar touches throughout. Throw Me A Line is classic soulful blues, with a hint of gospel thrown in. The album changes course slightly with Take Me To The River Or The Sea; it’s upbeat, it’s rock and roll and, while not the core business of the duo, does provide a re-energising contrast. The listener is soon returned to more familiar ground with I Think I Know, and the selections continue to affirm, with some confidence, where the band stands musically. The title track, Welcome Change, is similar in style to the album opener. Matter Of Fact is a more upbeat rock-and-roll song and is followed by It’s Alright, a great example of the rock-ballad and one of the album’s high points. Just Playing My Guitar, essentially a two-chord workout, provides the opportunity for some agreeable musical meanderings. The vibrant Vincent And Valerie and slightly-haunting Let’s Go wrap up the disc which, on the whole, proves a most satisfying listen. As is to be expected, the album features strong vocal performances, and the guitar and drums sit at the core of the arrangements. Unlike Lily and the Drum’s first album, many of the duo’s long-time confederates have helped out in musical supporting roles, creating a big sound on the disc. This is a little different to what you might get when listening to Lily And The Drum live, but it is no less enjoyable. In fact, it is difficult to imagine some of the songs being performed without these full arrangements. All up, this is another well-executed album of original music from Lily And The Drum. Get a hold of it, and catch them live when you can! David Robinson Click here to check out the Lily And The Drum website.