Fans of The Nymphs rejoice: after almost a decade of pitch-perfect a capella harmonies, the band has finally released an album. Summoning the sounds of bygone eras, the debut LP features everything you’d expect from the Aussie favourites– stunning voices, stamps and handclaps, without the aid of instrumentation.

A large part of The Nymphs’ charm resides not only in their melodic expertise, but in their ability to craft evocative compositions. Tracing ’40s jazz, ’50s swing and early ’60s pop, each song drops the listener in a particular space. Weary processional ‘Hope I Feel Better Soon’ conjures images of prisoners chipping away at stone, chanting the song’s deeply intoxicating refrain. A second highlight emerges in the poignant ‘Grave Shift’, a delicate hymn with a haunting quality.

It’s Been A Long Time Awaitingis warm and immersive, owing in part to the effortless authenticity of The Nymphs’ endeavours. Each of their original songs showcase a certain reverence for past classics and standards.

Australia has been blessed with its share of vocal pop groups of late, but The Nymphs – now more than ever with the release of this immensely satisfying album – might just triumph as Melbourne’s finest.

4/5 stars

It’s Been A Long Time Awaitingout now independently.

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