I imagine back in home-country Australia John Butler and his trio are well known. Not so over here in the UK where such a lot of great talent goes unseen and unheard. I hope that fate doesn’t befall Butler because this album of blues/folk/rock deserves much better.

Putting this CD into the player for the first time I was immediately struck by the sparkling recording quality. The opening Lapsteel chords of Treat Yo Mama literally fly out of the speakers with a raw, live vitality. It’s a fantastic opening with Butler’s strident vocal interspersed with vivid instrumental spells from drummer Nicky Bomba, and well-judged backing vocals from Daniella CaruanaPeaches & Cream, a simple acoustic love song featuring Butler on vocals and guitar. The song gently rambles along supported by a strong melody and a deeply expressive, contemplative Butler performance. Beautiful. The pace gathers momentum again for the beats dominated Company Sin and the distinct country guitar vibe of Betterman. So far so great. But just when I thought things couldn’t get much better, they do. What You Want is a string soaked, intensely moving song with simple and very direct lyrics: “But tell me how you feel, for I am lonely too. Need you to know, I’m just as cold and numb as you” It’s a song that’s epic in scale and perfectly matched to the powerful, heartfelt message so expressively communicated by Butler.

Banjo chords and a distant voice signal the next traditional-sounding track Damned To Hell. There’s a strong blue grass flavour to a track that disappears as swiftly as it appears. Fascinating.

SUNRISE OVER SEA is a diversely paced, emotional and intelligent musical feast from an artist and backing musicians who I’d love to see perform live over here soon. It’s also one of the finest releases so far in 2005 and sure to be included in our best-of-year albums list. Essential.

5/5