Josie Field: 1984 (Gallo)
The first time I saw Josie Field live was when she opened for James Blunt in 2008 and, were it not for Blunt’s amazing performance on the evening, he could very well have been upstaged by her. Her third studio album, 1984, delivers everything that her fans would expect her to and more.
The songs are tight, with only two tracks topping the four-minute mark (and one of those is the last track and has a bonus track at the end). The album opens with Everything Is As It Should Be and as far as fans need to know that is as much a statement of the state of her career as it is a song title.
Her blend of folk-rock is instantly recognisable, with a perfect mix of upbeat tunes and more laid-back songs. Power, the second track of the 13 on the album, is a rocking quick-tempo song that will prove popular. Other songs, such as Man Is a Fire, feel more experimental but with Field’s distinctive voice it remains true to the rest of the album.
Another highlight is the collaboration with Arno Carstens on Goodbye and the bonus track, At the End of Time, is delightful and a special reward for those who listen to the end. If anything, this album is a testament to an artist who understands herself and her fans and they will not be disappointed.