The Sirens of Venice
Self-titled
Speak and Spell

Craig Jackson has stepped out from behind Aussie band, Gersey, to deliver a new album.

Not quite a solo project, the singer, Jackson, has teamed with his wife and fellow artist Camilla to release an album under the name, The Sirens of Venice.

The 10 track release is quite haunting, with attention to detail an obvious priority for the pair.

‘Come Back To Me’ initially leaves you hanging, until sharp piano keys break the silence. Craig’s vocals are tender amid a whimsical soundscape. The softer, simple piano part provides a wonderful moment of suspense.

‘Somewhere Under The Sea’ is somewhat a little macabre. Even after a few attempts I found it almost impossible to move past its comparison to a funeral match, though perhaps that’s what the Jacksons were hoping for.

‘You & Me’ has a delightful opening with parred back guitar and cymbal work. Camilla’s soft backing vocals compliment the track’s string element with ghost like beauty.

‘Love Lights Bloom, I’m A Fool’ seems to struggle a little, with Craig’s vocals in part not entirely matching the delicate setting or accurately capturing the emotion of the band’s expressive lyrics.

‘Now I Feel The Weight’ has a lovely brightness to it through the band’s use to drum beats and simple pianos notes. There is a great deal of patience brought to the track, each progression is perfectly timed, each note perfectly weighted.

‘Unrequited Dream #53 (This City’s On Fire)’ continues where ‘Now I Feel The Weight’ left off. The unmistakable gem about this track is the tapping of piano keys and its overall lightness. Craig seems more relaxed on this track, his voice more flexible in its ranges, adding good amounts of contrast.

The Sirens of Venice is a dark and at times convoluted album. It asks a lot from the listener, yet it offers enough rewards to warrant a thorough hearing.

Tags | Review: The Sirens of Venice - Self-titled