On Spring And Fall, Paul Kelly is definitely not resting on his laurels, even though he could be.
In recent years, the iconic singer-songwriter has been studied in year 12 English classes in Victorian schools. That his songs have sat alongside works by Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams might seem strange, but Kelly’s best-loved tunes are a part of Australian life, more so than any American novel or play. They’re a reminder of who we are.
While album number 19 may not prove as vital as “the classics”, it’s no less engaging.
Spring And Fall is a stripped back affair, acoustic guitars and delicate percussion providing the canvas for his evocative lyricism – the loose theme is love or more broadly, relationships.
Lead single “New Found Year” is a breezy acoustic ode to a young couple. Kelly’s nephew, acclaimed singer-songwriter Dan Kelly, steps up to the mic adding gorgeous harmonies to the chorus: “Oh my India, my new found land/ My America, come take my hand.”
Aside from singing and playing on the album, Dan’s contributions extend to co-production, and together the pair have crafted a warm, well-rounded and concise record.
A haunting string arrangement underscores “Someone New”, as Kelly croons, “I just want sleep with someone else/ touch some different skin.”
The subject seems to be adultery, but the premise is cleverly turned on its head. Kelly’s sense of humour is still intact too. On “For The Ages” he sings wryly: “You walked into the ball/ dressed by St Vincent de Paul.”
Simply put, the 11 tracks here (12 if you’re patient) are another example of why Paul Kelly is Australia’s finest singer-songwriter.
