Step into the immersive soundscape crafted by Paul Salem as he takes us on a captivating journey through the albums that have profoundly influenced his artistic path.
Paul Salem, the Sydney-based songwriter, enchants listeners with his latest single “Sun,” blending acoustic melodies and soulful vocals in a dreamlike and introspective dance of love.
Through the creation of a captivating soundscape that beautifully captures the delicate nuances of intimacy, Paul Salem generously invites us to delve into the albums that have profoundly shaped his artistic journey.
Salem highlights Angus and Julia Stone’s “Down the Way,” a nostalgic favorite of Sydney 90s kids. Tracks like “And the Boys” and “Devils Tears” evoke memories, while Julia Stone’s live performance of “For You” brings tears to his eyes, as the song’s lyrics resurface after years.
Matt Corby’s “Into The Flame” EP leaves a lasting impression on Salem, particularly with the poignant track “Untitled.” Regretfully missing an opportunity to attend one of Corby’s legendary shows, Salem cherishes the special evening he spent in the front row at the Enmore Theatre.
Lastly, Salem pairs Mac DeMarco’s “Another One” and Tame Impala’s “Currents,” as these albums were his study companions during the HSC period. The artists’ willingness to evolve and their DIY approach resonate with Salem, inspiring him on his artistic journey. Through his dreamy soundscape and authentic expression, Salem invites us to join him on his musical odyssey.
Down the Way – Angus and Julia Stone
I think this album is part of every Sydney 90s kids life whether they know it or not. Everyone can bang out a chorus of ‘Big Jet Plane’. But what really made me fall in love with this album were the more moodier tracks like ‘And the Boys’ and ‘Devils Tears’.
This album brings back memories like a tidal wave. It was on heavy rotation on my iPod classic whether it be walking from the train station to and from school, or gazing moodily into the distance through the bus window.
There was something always really cool about listening to this duo because they lived so close to home. I remember seeing Julia Stone live at Splendour in the Mud 2022, and hearing the track ‘For You’ and almost balling my eyes out.
If it wasn’t for my toxic trait of resisting the urge to cry, at that point in my life, I probably would’ve. I hadn’t heard the song in about 8 years years, but I knew every word. Angus Stone was a surprise appearance that night and they played ‘Chateau’ from one of their more recent records.
Epic vibes, even if we were knee deep in a swamp-pit.
Into The Flame – Matt Corby
Okay so again… this EP is defs a cult favourite with the hot track ‘Brother’. I distinctly remember all of my high school friendship group trying to learn this song on guitar in the music department before school. The way that Matt Corby does his iconic “woooos” and “aaahs”, bouncing between what seems like impossible notes to reach in the male register, is something that has inspired me to push my vocal limits.
But my favourite song on this EP is definitely ‘Untitled’, its like a soft, sweet, lullaby but with a bit of a bitter story, throwing the letter “into the flame” and departing from a relationship.
I really love this contrast. Also ‘Souls A Fire’, his super raspy voice and a bit more hostile energy is great to see. I try to live my life without regret, however, if I had one it would be turning down a ticket to one of his iconic ‘Secret Garden Shows’.
I remember applying to host Matt Corby for the Sydney leg of his tour, unfortunately didn’t get picked :’( My friends ended up buying tickets to the show, but I turned it down to go to an athletics presentation night. WHAT WAS I THINKING!? My friends still talk about that night to this day, saying it was the best gig they’ve ever been to.
I later got to see him play at the Enmore Theatre which was still a very special evening spent in the front row.
Another One – Mac DeMarco, and Currents – Tame Impala
Okay the reason why I pair these albums together is because I literally listened EXCLUSIVELY to these two albums when I was studying for my HSC.
I know every bit of every song. Being a very busy minded person, I basically can’t do anything without listening to music.
So I would happily be scribbling French vocab or drawing parabolas humming the tune of ‘The Way You’d Love Her’ by Mac or ‘Yes I’m Changing’ by Tame.
Reading this you may think, why pick these two albums from these artist’s discography? Surely, I would be picking ‘Salad Days’ or ‘Lonerism’?
It is the mentality of these two artists to constantly do things their own way that keeps me listening. These two albums copped some hate from day dot fans, but I think it’s great to see artists evolving their music as they do themselves.
Both Mac and Kevin are very much DIY and think “this is what feels good for me, so I am going to make it… I hope this feels good for other people too?? But if not no worries.” I love their individual stories and devotion to the art form, and not fixating on what this might do for listeners. They keep it real.
This is what I aspire to do as an artist. Let’s see how it goes.
