Hussy
Hicks – The London Sessions (Funk Fauna)
Hussy Hicks - Julz Parker and Leesa Gentz – a
progressive folk duo from the Australian East Coast, got together in 2006, and were
busy from the off, gigging, recording and releasing their music. Indeed, they
debuted on plastic in 2008 with their “Life Plays Out” album, and have issued
new recordings, on various formats, every year since. Their prolific output
suggests they’re enjoying what they do, and that certainly comes across on
their 2013 offering, “The London Sessions”. The pair – Parker plays guitar, and
Gentz sings – throw themselves into the music, and their enthusiasm and joie de
vivre is palpable. The sound is completed by a rhythm section that understands its
obligations, and they swing like few folk groups do.
Not that they’re purists by any means. Taking
inspiration from various genres, including jazz, soul, old country and blues,
the different combinations they employ keeps their music fresh, without
sacrificing their trademark sound. That’s defined by Parker’s expressive
musicianship – she’s played with a variety of acclaimed guitarists from Tommy
Emmanuel to Lulo Reinhardt – and Gentz’s distinctive and versatile vocals.
Standout performances come thick and fast. Opening
cut, “Armageddon (Outta Here)” arrives on
blues-rock guitar lick, and Gentz is soon in on the act. It’s a cracking start,
and brings to mind Little Feat, Bonnie Raitt and the best of ‘70s FM radio. “Breaking It All Down” serves up a little social
commentary, though it’s observational rather than preachy, and not forgetting
my current fave, the rootsy, old-fashioned “Empty Room”,
which would probably be hailed a classic had it originated in Austin rather
than Australia.
Phil S.
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