Elton John and Brandi Carlile collaborate, Marlon Williams releases te reo Māori album and other news
Elton John and Brandi Carlile recently joined forces to create a collaborative album titled “Who Believes In Angels?”. This project, completed within a mere 20 days, showcases the distinct talents of both iconic artists. The album’s standout track, ‘You Without Me’, features an intimate and compelling vocal performance by Carlile, highlighting her presence throughout the album. While Elton John’s strong voice and nostalgic piano work bring a sense of familiarity and comfort to the record, the final delivery falls short of the high expectations set by these esteemed musicians. The album’s glossy production and grand compositions may spark excitement in a live setting, but lack the emotional depth and connection found in their individual works. Despite celebrating the friendship between these two legendary artists, “Who Believes In Angels?” fails to resonate on a deeper level, urging listeners to explore their previous solo endeavors for a more fulfilling experience.
Marlon Williams, known for his folk and country stylings, ventured into new territory with his fourth album, “Te Whare Tīwekaweka”, entirely in te reo Māori. This ambitious project, titled ‘The Messy House’ in translation, showcases Williams’ journey of rediscovering and immersing himself in the Māori language. While incorporating traditional musical elements, such as kapa haka group singing, Williams maintains the essence of bluegrass and folk music in this unique offering. Collaborating with pop sensation Lorde on the poignant duet ‘Kāhore He Manu E’, Williams explores themes of love and loss, highlighting the beauty and resonance of te reo Māori in a time where its importance is under threat. “Te Whare Tīwekaweka” stands as a testament to Williams’ growth and cultural exploration, inviting listeners to discover the rich tapestry of Māori language and music.
Byron Bay’s psychedelic rock outfit, Babe Rainbow, presents their sixth album, “Slipper imp and shakaerator”, a whimsical and eclectic journey through retro-inspired sounds. Drawing on influences from the past, the group’s experimental approach blends groovy rhythms, trippy textures, and funky instrumentations to create a one-of-a-kind sonic experience. Tracks like ‘What is ashwagandha’ and ‘When the milk flows’ showcase Babe Rainbow’s playful and adventurous spirit, incorporating elements of nature, flight announcements, and sci-fi themes into their music. Embracing a carefree and unconventional ethos, Babe Rainbow’s music transcends time and genre, offering listeners a refreshing and immersive escape from the ordinary.
In conclusion, the music landscape in April is filled with exciting releases that push boundaries and challenge conventions. From the collaborative efforts of Elton John and Brandi Carlile, to the cultural exploration of Marlon Williams, and the experimental sounds of Babe Rainbow, there is a diverse range of musical offerings to ignite the senses and inspire the soul. As we embark on this musical journey, let’s open our minds and ears to the creativity and passion of these artists, embracing the unique stories and sounds they have to share with the world.