Kate Miller-Heidke is one of the most intriguing Australian musicians, so it makes sense that her second album is titled Curiouser.
It’s an eclectic collection of songs, from the sunny pop opener “The One Thing I Know” to the moving ballad “The Last Day on Earth.” The tunes might sound markedly different, but they’re unified by Kate’s clever lyrics and sense of fun.
This is a more commercial affair than Kate’s debut Little Eve, and initially that may disappoint some fans. Her operatic trills are scaled back, and songs like the single “Can’t Shake It” will sound right at home on sandwiched between Britney and Beyonce on the radio. But Kate cleverly stays just left of the mainstream, no matter how close to it she veers. These songs are more accessible to the masses, but they’re still highly original.
The tunes all clock in at around three minutes, helping the disc move at a frantic pace. I needed to play it through three times just to absorb it all, particularly those cheeky lyrics. I think every girl will relate to the sentiments in “God’s Gift to Women” and “I Like You Better When You’re Not Around”!
Kate Miller-Heidke has gone from strength to strength with Curiouser, a complex album that gets richer with every listen. I always knew she was brilliant, but this might just be the CD that convinces the rest of Australia. Take a look at this video for a taste of the album!