★★★½
Fraser A. Gorman is an old soul, evident from the throwback Americana in which he trades and the world-weary wisdom he bestows. His debut Slow Gum is an easy listen that creates nostalgia for a time long gone.
The album gets off to a subtle start with ‘Big Old World’, a solo acoustic contemplation of life the world over, from the boy from North Melbourne to the girl from New York City. ‘My Old Man’ is the first taste of the roots style Gorman mines in. It’s a style that suits him, and one that sounds fresh thanks to its recent obscurity. With its casual beat and ever-present background violin, it recalls the kings of roots rock, The Band.
As lovely as Gorman’s roots leanings are, the best songs are the ones that use the genre as a jumping off point. ‘Book Of Love’, for instance, still has one foot steeped in roots rock, but with its lounge organ, melodic bass and understated vocal, it creates its own mood.
‘Blossom & Snow’ closes Slow Gum as quietly as it began, having successfully used the last 30 minutes to show Gorman as a gifted individual with a unique view of our big old world.
Fraser A. Gorman’s Slow Gum is out on Milk!.
