Australian brother/sister duo Angus & Julia Stone released a new video, directed by Josh Groom for their song "Babylon," off their debut 6-track EP, "Chocolates And Cigarettes." Distributed in the US by WMG. "Babylon" is a lovely soulful tune in the vein of the Nutini/Blunt style that is currently in vogue. Angus & Julia Stone's intimate and cinematic folk music is anchored by the band's namesake siblings, with percussionist Mitch Connelly and bassist Clay McDonald adding their own contributions and instrumental flourishes to the mix. Growing up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, the Stone siblings were taught the history of pop music from an early age by their father, who played in a cover band.The twosome's debut EP was written and recorded live at home, helping to give it a calm and remarkably chilled quality. Likened to Portishead and Damien Rice, the Stones alternate lead vocals across the EP. Angus has the better voice, with its country drawl which evokes hints of Paul Simon. Julia's is weak, thin and fractured and there are far better exponents of the fragile little girl sound than her. Although the whole EP is well put together, the lyrics and accompaniment are good, it's let down by the quality of some of the vocals. There are some promising tracks here, but you'd perhaps be better off waiting for Angus to go solo.
Having spent the last two years touring the world in support of their critically acclaimed debut "A Book Like This." Angus & Julia Stone return with their eagerly anticipated sophomore release "Down The Way." Themes of lost love and yearning weave through, they make their debut as producers, and develop their sound without losing the spirit of their debut. There's been a subtle shift in gear, evidence of a growing confidence - the music gravitates from sparse to rich and textured arrangements yet never loses its etherealness and charm.
"Babylon" was used in the American television dramas "Army Wives," and "House Rules" pilot. Once again the duo share song-writing duties - their individual styles juxtaposing yet complimenting the other. On "Down The Way," Angus & Julia Stone showcase thirteen lovingly crafted songs reflecting a myriad of emotions. Another graceful step on a remarkable musical journey. Over the course of the last three years the duo have ventured everywhere from the Scottish Highlands to the heart of the USA. With a worldwide tour kicking off in their native Australia, the siblings are set to continue to win yet more hearts across the globe in 2010.
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