It’s not for everyone, but if there was ever going to be a release that could swing more listeners towards folk music, Good Oak’s self-titled EP is it.
It’s a blend of folky swamp, easy-listening coated with that certain charm that comes from indie bands.
Stephen Ryan, Brett Gibson and Tom Busby combine each of their own unique sounds – especially the banjo – together to create annoyingly catchy songs that stay with you long after listening.
‘Fill My Cup’ is a smooth tune with dark, soulful lyrics set on the backdrop of a toe-tapping, banjo-heavy sound that brings to light the image of a group of youths sitting around a campfire singing.
There’s a welcome change of pace in ‘Provider’ with great guest vocals from Nat Dunn that really adds another layer to the sound akin to that Of Monsters & Men with both male and female singing throughout.
It’s a great little release, one that is sure to spark an interest in the sadly underplayed genre of music, something that the Australian music scene really does need more of – something which Good Oak is happy to provide.
