Music Review: Marlon Williams, Marlon Williams (+video)

Marlon Williams

Marlon Williams is far from your typical singer songwriter. Facts are that there's very little that isn't unique about the Lyttelton musician. Marlon's voice is the obvious starting point in examining his prodigious talents. Rich and passionate, with an ability to soar high ahead of a galloping country tune, or to mellow out over a tender love song. Having seen Marlon Williams live in support of Justin Townes Earle's tour last year another aspect of his talents is his confident approach. He knows his voice well and knows where to take it seemingly effortlessly.

The debut self-titled album is a potent mix of country based music Marlon Williams style, from the Rawhide style opening track Hello Miss Lonesome to immediate country classics like Dark Child, I'm Lost Without You and the glorious Strange Things. Williams has truly mastered the art of yearning as the basis of a convincing love song. There's also an uncanny retro feel to the soundscape of some tracks, reminding me of the production values of the Righteous Brothers, or vocally Gene Pitney or Roy Orbison.

Recorded in the low key Sitting Room studios in Lyttelton, the record is spiced by faultless backing from the local musos and with to-die-for harmonies. While based in Melbourne these days, and with a hook up with Townes Earle in the States also imminent, Marlon Williams tours the main centres here next month.

Check out the video for

Dark Child

here.