Album Review: Kingfisha - Kingfisha

Brisbane reggae outfit Kingfisha have taken longer than most to deliver their debut, but it's an enjoyable, well-produced if somewhat unsurprising release. Looking Glass makes it clear that their intention is to define a reggae axis on which to balance the rest of the album on. The playing is tight and Anthony Forrest's smooth vocal delivery and self-reflective lyrics raise the quality considerably.

Enough, which first surfaced on the Island Time 4 compilation, has been reworked and the moody reprise may be a disappointment to lovers of the edgy original. However it's still a standout with a pulsating tempo coupled with clever biting lyrics, proving Kingfisha can deliver versatility without sacrificing their core sonic elements. Always Tomorrow is the clear winner with syncopated groove counterpointed with a sublime guitar lick that drips with chorus and vibrato reminiscent of the best of '80s Australian pop. It's also cleverly arranged and shows a band that can deliver beyond genre with future releases. After the smooth Let You Know, Piece Of The Puzzle lays down solid foundations rounded out with rising synths that make it a pleasure to listen to. Lamentations about lost youth and anti-Babylon chanting continue here but somehow manage to not sound cheesy, even if resorting back to tried and true lyrical reggae fair. Your Welcome is another high point with a fat bottom end guaranteed to blow car speakers and move derrière's.

This is a solid debut that pulls some surprises out of its well-worn Rasta hat. It should not only appeal to lovers of reggae, but also to newcomers looking for a sound complimentary to sun-drenched days and apathetic social activism.