Bobby Alu – Take It Slow
Eastside Radio’s album of the week is Take It Slow by Bobby Alu.
As an infusion of roots, reggae and soulful rhetoric, Charles Wall’s chilled out alter ego and his bandmates have created an album that is nothing short of soothing. Take It Slow comprises 13 tracks that shine focus on the peaceful vocal harmonies and light ukelele, as well as an abundance of other instruments that create an incredibly distinctive ambience. Though an unlucky number for some, these 13 tracks prove the perfect amount to create a sense of nothing else but music and you.
It’s the second album for Bobby Alu, who has utilised the increase in members to make it possible to bring in influences from a greater variety of places. As Bobby puts it:
“Now Bobby Alu is a team and a family. The balance, line up and groove of the band has taken shape over two years of touring the country, playing festivals, support slots, writing together and of course – recording this album. It’s all about lifestyle choice for all of us. We choose the lives we lead and remain grateful for the good fortune that comes our way. Success doesn’t come without hard work but we find salvation in keeping the balance. Chilling out as well as working hard but first and foremost enjoying the journey. Take it Slow is an album delivering this philosophy.”
Though the whole album boasts boasts a soon-to-be classic sound, there are a number of standouts. ‘So Dear’ purveys the perfect marriage of vocal affinity and the subtle sounds of a shaker behind the beautiful placid strum of the Bobby’s ukelele. ‘Siva Maia’ opens with an lustrous drumming pattern that breaks into a dreamy bass line and soft vocals in the wondrous Samoan language, whereas released single ‘You Know’ is a bigger production with a more traditional drum beat and a beautifully paced strum to let get you walking, swaying or just kicking back and relaxing on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
With a message of positivity and realisation, Take It Slow boasts sensational production and an aura that could put a smile on the most down and out individual. The band themselves are playing an extended run of shows, making a pit stop at our city’s most beloved Venue505 with Afrobeat maestros The Strides at the end the week. Make sure you get in now to avoid missing out on a fantastic performance!
Who: Bobby Alu
When: Sat, 30th Nov, 9pm
Where: Venue505, 280 Cleveland St, Surry Hills
Tickets: $20
For more information and to book, go to www.bobbyalu.com