Andrew Morris - Needs &Wants

Tue 28th Jul, 2009 in Music Reviews

To compare Andrew Morris’ last two records in terms of musical ambition, clarity of sound and songwriting would dismiss his 2007 J. Walker produced country pop dreamer Union Bars. For Morris’ 2009 product Needs & Wants is unquestionably the Brisbane lad’s magnum opus.

Upon listening, you’ll wonder how in just two years Morris has made the jump from serviceable roots musician to masterful director of an almost-rock opera. He’s teamed with a new producer – Art Of Fighting’s Marty Brown – along with sidekicks Steve Hesketh (keys), Pat Bourke (bass) and Roger Bergodaz (drums). The sublime backing vocals of – œMozettes’ Sime Nugent, Clare Bowditch and Laura Jean – three of the most classic vocal partners a man could ever wish to receive – are also on board.

From the opening bars of Hilltop, it’s clear that Morris is in a new mood, moving away from the – œcountry guy’ pigeonhole. He’s achieving it with such class. Delicate keys, dominant drums, lush harmonies and backing vocals support his all new soulful adventure. From Don’t Know What I Want – with its syncopated beat, horns and goliath production – Morris suits the almost adult contemporary feel down to a tee. This is a good time song; a real sing-along that evokes the big band aesthetic.

Domino eases through at an even pace, Morris stretching out his vocal range both high and low. His falsetto rises above the tenor saxophone burst, while Lover explodes from the blocks with our man providing the most immediate-sounding song on the record. Whilst A Lonely Goodbye provides the one genuine weepie on the record, representing Morris in full heart-rending voice, Nothing Lasts Forever capitalises on The Mozettes’ contribution. Nugent, Bowditch and Laura Jean scale their unique vocal spread to great effect.

On Lady Venus, Morris works the trumpets to create a bona-fide feel-good number complete with rousing rhythm and psychedelic jazz keys. It’s quite an achievement. Both this tune and the record at large.

Needs & Wants is out now on ABC Music/Universal.