Brisbane-based chanteuse Deena shows her versatility in her sophomore album Black Cat. This release builds on the acoustic-folk sound that she showcased on her debut album Lone Wolf, with a full band helping her create something much bigger, grittier, darker, and bluesier.
The opening song “Cupid” is a steamy number that starts sultry before erupting with a cacophony of guitars. There’s a lot of that pattern in this album. I think I’m hearing something small and intimate, but somewhere along the way Deena takes a left turn and really lets loose. It’s as if her emotions can only be contained for so long before brimming and bubbling over. There so much good stuff on here, but Deena floored me with “Curve.” That song may have some of the most heartbreaking lyrics that I’ve ever heard.
If I had any criticism of the album, it’s that I could have done without the final track, a remix of “Uncut Diamonds II.” This electronic makeover doesn’t do the song any favours, and doesn’t seem to gel with the rest of the album. I suppose it shows another side of Deena, but it feels like a wasted exercise considering how good the other version is. That said, you’ve got to admire an artist that takes risks as Deena does, especially when so many of them pay off as they do on this album.
Black Cat hits stores on 13 February. Deena will promote its release with the following shows.
8 February 2015 – The Newsagency, Sydney
11 February 2015 – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle (FREE)
12 February 2015 – The Publishers Hotel, Adelaide
13 February 2015 – The Vinyl, Adelaide
15 February 2015 – The Workers Club, Melbourne
18 February 2015 – Brisasia Festival, Brisbane
20 February 2015 – Queen St Mall, Brisbane (FREE)
8 March 2015 – Kettle & Tin, Paddington, Brisbane
15 March 2015 – The Brewery, Byron Bay
20 March 2015 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane