The Miltones – The Miltones (The Label)

With an ability to write intelligent lyrics and an alluring stage presence The Miltones have, indisputably, earned their chance to release this debut album. Led by vocalist Milly Tabak and guitarist Liam Pratt, the group released their first single Black Dahlia in 2014. The track introduced the bands alternative yet skilfully unique sound, easily attractive to crowds of all ages.

The group have an effortless knack for modernizing specialist genres without bowing to the wave of mainstream’s synthetic imitations. As their first album, they naturally exemplify an uplifting sense of sharp energy accompanying straight-up lyrics. Their cleverly distorted take on Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah in Glory is intoxicatingly punchy in a goosebump-ifying way. For everyone’s sake, turn this one up. Allow the power of the earthy blues to run through you.

The first track Pursed Lips provides the entrance into their world of soft rock, folk with a splash of country at its purest form. Tabak’s wildly eccentric yet beautifully rich vocals both contrast and complement Pratt’s acoustic contribution.

It is apparent that there is an innate love for Americana and country, most prominently evident in Dancing With The Dead. This is the truest representation of their 1970s Southern American influence. The track pulls the listener into a Hoe-down styled beat dragging out a primal yet infectious desire to get on your feet (square-dance, maybe?). Tabak takes the role of a young Loretta Lynn without discharging her natural Stevie Nick type undertones.

Comparable to the work of Australia’s own folk duo Julia and Angus Stone (coincidentally, the opening act for Fleetwood Mac’s most recent New Zealand tour), The Miltones blend modern laidback vibes with yesteryear nostalgia. Exemplified with The Wanderer – a cruisey  track with relaxed, rhythmic strums. It is the type of cool yet hypnotic track you would dive into on a Sunday afternoon.

Emma Lumbus