A soulful exploration of grief and resilience that confirms Howard’s place as a master storyteller.
Phillip Island’s Mark Howard has long been a compelling figure in the Australasian music scene, a troubadour known for blending alt-rock, folky blues, and cinematic pop with a distinctly theatrical flair.
Following his acclaimed debut and extensive tours with icons like Tash Sultana and The Whitlams, Howard returns with his sophomore album, Deep Dark Blue, his most immersive and bold work to date.
This is an album that doesn’t just ask for a listen; it invites a deep, emotional plunge into a world of atmospheric instrumentation, raw vulnerability, and striking storytelling.
Deep Dark Blue is a journey of self-discovery and healing, shaped by the highs and lows of life on the road.
From the opening, reverb-soaked vocals of the title track, listeners are lured into a hypnotic state.
Howard, working with producer Dave Prideaux, pushes his sound into new, textured territories.
The record swaggers with the gritty, romantic tension of ‘Highway Crow,’ echoes with Nick Cave-like intensity, and soars on the indie-rock anthem ‘The Light Behind Us.’
It’s a sonic landscape masterfully brought to life by Graham King’s groove-driven drums, hypnotic harmonies from Maddy May and Brooke Taylor, and Andy Stewart’s polished mastering.
The album’s emotional core is its fearless vulnerability. The haunting, orchestral ballad ‘Heaven Doesn’t Need You Like I Do’ is a profound exploration of grief and connection, delivering one of Howard’s most raw performances.
This depth is balanced by playful, cinematic swagger on Tim Rogers-approved tracks like “My Girl Is On Fire,” which he said feels like a Tarantino soundtrack in waiting.
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Howard’s genius lies in turning these everyday moments of pain, love, and longing into something mythic and universal.
By the time the haunting organ melodies of the reprise fade out, Deep Dark Blue has taken you on a complete cathartic journey, proving that through sorrow, we can find deeper understanding and even joy.
It’s a captivating and beautifully executed record that confirms Mark Howard isn’t just a local talent, but a storyteller with a rapidly expanding global voice.
