Tuesday 11 June 2013

Review: Pippa Drysdale – Bluebird


Pippa Drysdale – Bluebird (Independent)
An Australian, born in Africa, and now spending her time in New York, London and Perth (while following a relentless touring schedule that takes in the UK and Europe), Pippa Drysdale’s roots are probably in her music, one of her few constants in a busy life. Her songs - confessional, honest, life-affirming – are generally played on piano, and exist in a genre shared by Feist, Fiona Apple and Tori Amos. “Bluebird” is her fourth album, and every lyric and melody is her own, every word sung, Drysdale sings, and the list of secondary instruments she plays includes vibraphone, guitars and Hammond organ. She’s joined by Chris Vallejo on bass (and other instruments), and percussionist Josh Shubert.

Beginning with the pure pop tones of “The Angel Song”, its façade of simple, quirky delights disguises something altogether more complex, and is beautifully executed. “Razorblade Spoon” takes a more recognisable route - though the result is just as pleasurable, and as with all of “Bluebird” there’s much satisfaction to be found in Drysdale’s wordplay. Of course, on “(Je Ne Peux Pas Te Dire) Adieu” it may not be quite as obvious, but a breezy tune and a generous helping of charm carry the day.
Phil S.

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