Julia And The Deep Sea Sirens’ self-produced sophomore release Family Pets is a sweet yet melancholic record with plenty of charm.
With lead singer Julia Johnson’s soft feminine vocals at the forefront, the second album from the Canberra folksters is compelling.
There’s no doubt that Johnson is a talented singer and her vehement and honest vocals tell a beautiful story from beginning to end.
The 12 track album runs seamlessly, a beautiful harmony of eerie strings and banjos, with the Canberra singer’s soothing voice remaining the centrepiece.
Sinister undertones haunt the track ‘Nicholas Told Me’; a rich song that builds to a driving drum heavy chorus before falling back to just Johnson’s voice and those melancholy strings.
The lyrics tell a heartbreakingly honest tale — “What’s he dreaming about / While I’m lying here in his arms?” the songstress’ storytelling is at its best on this brooding track.
First single ‘Little Surprises’ has a more upbeat tempo and subject matter.
The sweet song takes a look at the better little surprises life has to offer, from falling in love to making it through tough times. The banjo prominent tune is filled with gorgeous harmonies that will have you humming along.
Other standout tracks include the slow-paced and forlorn ‘Acquaintance Of Mine’ and catchy second single ‘Adeleine’.
Family Pets isn’t the sort of record that you’re going to love instantly. Yet slowly but surely these Canberra locals will win you over with their soft melodic brand of indie folk. This musically rich and endearing record deserves a place in your music collection.
