Proving that the best things take time, The Kite Machine has just released their long-awaited debut album. Their self-titled LP has been three years in the making, but it’s certainly worth the wait.
This is one of those albums that took me by surprise. I thought I knew what I was in for when I head the classic pop-rock sound of opening track “The Only One.” It was instantly accessible with chunky guitar riffs and singalong chorus. What fun! “Charlotte” brings a little more funk though, with a dirty bass line, jazzy sections, a wild guitar solo, and a sprinkling of falsetto vocals for good measure. While I enjoyed the easy listenability of “The Only One,” this was the track that made me sit up and take notice.
Once my ears were locked in, they didn’t lose focus. The Kite Machine kept surprising me, proving they’re far more than the radio-friendly band I took them for. Instrumental tracks are so rare on contemporary albums, but I’m glad The Kite Machine aren’t afraid of going their own way. “Larry The Bird” is a killer take which bridges “Charlotte” and the groovy “Top of the Hill” beautifully. “Walls” is a fantastic ballad, a summery chill-out tune that gives us all a moment to catch our breath before The Kite Machine amps up again with “Makeshifter,” “All in My Head,” and “Sinister Sound.” They’re such bold, energetic tracks, with great grooves that keep you on your toes. The Kite Machine reminded me again that they’re capable of taking it easy with “Paper Plains.” It’s even more subdued than “Walls,” the kind of track that sneaks up on you and gets underneath your skin without your realising it. It’s a thing of understated beauty, another moment to catch your breath before The Kite Machine bring it on home with “The Crook and the Skank.”
For fans of the band, The Kite Machine’s self-titled debut is the perfect reward for their patience. But for newcomers to their sound like me, it’s the ideal introduction. Just ten tracks has made me a fan. If you are too, you can catch the band playing a string of East Coast shows in the coming weeks.
26 April 2019 – Geddes Lane Ballroom, Melbourne
27 April 2019 – Mt Beauty Music Fest
16 May 2019 – The Marlborough Hotel, Newtown
17 May 2019 – Howlin Wolf, Wollongong
1 June 2019 – Karova Lounge, Ballarat
7 June 2019 – Halls Gap Hotel, Halls Gap
14 June 2019 – Barwon Club Hotel, South Geelong
Image used with permission from The Right Profile