Wellyn
An Intimate Universe
Independent


Wellyn is a prime talent, and 'An Intimate Universe' is not much shy of stupendous. For a modest album from a Melbourne band it's surprisingly unfailing and self-assured, and augurs great things to come for the band's future. Everything on this disc is elegant, memorable and unconditionally striking. Familiar yet fresh, some of the tunes sound perilously morose but Wellyn is accomplished with the concurrence of light and dark. There are few better places to spend time than in this acoustic, fanciful, sensual, velvety-tender world of sound.

The scope of 'An Intimate Universe' is habitually unpretentious, but it verbalises poise, insight, and heart, and is ultimately a potent reminder of why intimate music still matters. With Nedd Jones on vocals, Justin Rudge on bass, Joel Griffith on percussion, Jimmy Stewart on guitars and a total of 20 contributing musicians at times the sound is unsurprisingly full and wide ranging. Throughout, Wellyn sounds judicious beyond its years and the songs are melodramatically rich, yet retain some understated pop refrains and some cool hooks, so it's hardly surprising that this is such a satisfying album. The recording is a credit to all involved.

Sound engineer, Finn Keane (Franz Ferdinand and Oasis) makes a sterling contribution in capturing the dynamics of the band and the cries of a plethora of strings, organs, an accordion and the electrophone antennas of a Theremin. Some of these sounds remain firmly in the background but it's the occasional sun-dappled guitar flourishes and the subtle strings coupled with exemplary vocals and intriguing song-writing that transports 'An Intimate Universe' into an excellent album. Wellyn isn't your usual local band imitating the greats. Instead, the band walks with hushed tones that have concerto aspirations, and delivers a humble-but-distinguished CD that should be included in any thinking person's record collection.

Stephen Davenport