The Red Paintings— Walls

Mon 23rd May, 2005 in Music Reviews

Although the Walls EP wasn’t scheduled for official release until 23 May, that didn’t stop national radio station Triple J from playing the title track. In fact, the latest offering from the Red Paintings created so much hype that it debuted on the Net 50 at number three. Quite an impressive feat, yes?

And it’s little wonder. The band, originally formed in Geelong, now calls Brisbane home, and has spent the last couple of years promoting the heck out of themselves. Earlier this year they played their first-ever Big Day Out, and they have just embarked on a national tour that will see them traipsing to towns such as Mildura, Bendigo, and even Nimbin. And, if you know anything at all about the Red Paintings, it would be that their live shows are interesting experiences in themselves (perhaps even overshadowing the music).

The band’s ‘orchestral sci-fi art rock’ (as it has been described for previous releases) is clearly breaking new ground on this release. Seven track appear on the Walls EP, most notably the cover of the Tears for Fear classic Mad World (which was also revived recently by Gary Jules on the Donnie Darko soundtrack). This song has also been on high rotation at Triple J. Some rather lengthy tracks are a feature, comprised of some interesting orchestral elements incorporating a lush string section.

The Walls EP will no doubt be a hit with all Red Paintings fans, and may even attract some new ones in the process. I, for one, found them a little difficult to get into some of the tracks. That said, those who like their arty, experimental rock should certainly have a listen to this one. Even if you haven’t been a fan of the band’s previous releases, this one is worth a listen. Love it or hate it, you will still appreciate the undeniable creativity that has gone into the recordings,

The Red Paintings may not be for everyone, but they certainly are unique.