The brainchild of singer/songwriter/guitarist Alex Burnett, Sparkadia have been developing a strong reputation for themselves over the past few years. The Great Impression is the band’s second full-length album and a follow-up to debut, the intriguing Postcards, which displayed a great deal of potential.
On The Great Impression, Burnett seems more at ease and comfortable with his musical vision. What comes through the strongest on this album is Burnett’s strong songwriting skills and the beautifully clear and unpretentious way they are presented on both a vocal and sonic level. On songs like “Fingerprints” and the title track, all elements in play fit together in a wonderful and highly enjoyable way.
Burnett writes songs that are classic pop in style. One is reminded of seminal Australian bands like The Killjoys, The Triffids and The Go-Betweens when listening to The Great Impression. In other words, charming and intelligent pop music, the likes of which is all to rare these days. He has a great way with words, like when he talks about ‘walking like a young John Wayne’ in the infectious and utterly charming “Talking Like I’m Falling Down Stairs”.
Other highlights on the album include the anthemic “China” and “Mary, apparently about a stalker Burnett once had. “Love Less Love” is another striking track on an album full with great songs. This is album that also reveals itself more and more on subsequent listens.
A highly polished and accomplished second album from one of the brightest talents in local music at the moment.
-Neil Evans
