★★★★☆
Like fellow Aussie combo The Verses, Sal Kimber and The Rollin’ Wheel are skilled purveyors of smooth, hook-laden, roots-infused pop-rock that slides effortlessly into the listener’s memory bank.
The last few years have exposed Kimber to plenty of new audiences as she toured across Canada, appeared on SBS’ RocKwiz and supported the likes of Kasey Chambers, Tim Rogers and The Waifs.
Her third album Southern Light has a relaxed vibe and a lightness of touch, which makes it the ideal accompaniment to endless sun-drenched summer days. Kimber is joined on this record by friends such as Chris Parkinson (The Yearlings), Ben Franz (The Waifs) and Rebecca Barnard.
Kimber brings a natural soulfulness to songs such as‘Hunter’and ‘Burrawang’, while Shane O’Mara’s sensitive production allows the tracks ample space to breathe. One of the album highlights is the effortless groove and melodic yet rockin’ guitar that burns through the catchy ‘Come A Knockin’’.
The deft songwriting and subtly powerful musicianship that characterises Southern Light should inspire listeners to catch Kimber and The Rollin’ Wheel live at the next possible opportunity.
Sal Kimber and The Rollin’ Wheel’sSouthern Lightis out though Vitamin.
