Album Review: Jinja Safari - Jinja Safari

Jinja Safari's second full-length album is just as energetic and thrilling as their previous releases, but with a distinct confidence and complexity that immediately sets it apart. The record boasts wildness and sobriety in equal measures, and is incredibly satisfying in its versatility.

The record opens with Apple, whose spirited opening melody and smooth, clear vocals make it an excellent introduction. This is followed by Dozer, which is certainly one of the catchiest songs on the record, with a very exciting chorus and heavy drums throughout. Toothless Grin is simpler than the foregoing tracks but truly epitomises Jinja Safari's uniquely idealistic, dreamy folk sound. The tone of the album changes with Oh Benzo!, which is softer and less rhythmic than one would normally expect from the group, with entrancing vocal tone that showcases an impressive vocal range.

Just One Thing, one of the album's clear standouts, is soft and slow, displaying emotive lyricism and unusual, charming vocal phrasing that truly underlines the band's versatility and talent. West Coast Rock continues this theme of softer vocals but combines them with heavier drums and complex melodies, making it another highlight of the record. Plagiarist is perhaps the only song on the album that is not particularly catchy or captivating, and while its musicianship is wildly impressive, some of its strengths get lost in its complexity at times. The record then closes with Bay Of Fires, whose hypnotising chorus and strong vocals make it a perfect way to end the album. If they hadn't already, with this album Jinja Safari prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with and that they have carved themselves a very secure place in the future of Australian music.