Behind the alias are five Australians, two intriguing albums and a haunting sound. If you were expecting to read an in depth analysis about a one-man band, playing guitar at the local pub, then I will sadly disappoint. No one in this five-piece band goes by the name Jimmy. It is in fact a pseudonym – pertaining to lead singer, Sarah Retallick’s late grandfather. Through this pseudonym, Retallick pays homage to her late grandfather while making obvious to audiences that she is steering clear of the femme fatale stereotype.
A super group of sorts, Jimmy Tait is made up of musos who have previously lent their talents to The Gin Club and The Orphanage, bringing heaps of experience to this ensemble. With the release of their second album Golden, Jimmy Tait’s popularity is only rising. Golden is an album filled with ghostly melodies and sinister lyrics, with each crescendo more enchanting than the last. The unconventional style of the tunes will have you entranced. The typical verse-chorus-verse template rarely applies in these songs. Retallick’s song writing is a breathe of fresh air when compared to mainstream media. Each song resembles a play, with the melody progressing in sinuous ways.
The expansive album deals with isolation and silence of the Northern Victorian landscape, yet parallels with the uproar of city life. The gothic genre is home to many Australian artists, yet Jimmy Tait is able to transcend popular culture and provide a unique listening experience for their listeners. Their desolate imagery and emotive lyrics are the perfect company for a lazy Sunday.
If you’re eager to get out there and see ’em in the flesh, the band can be found playing at The Old Bar in Fitzroy, Melbourne every Sunday in February. If you’re not a Melb local but still love their sound, you can listen NON STOP at Bandcamp.
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