m4a 256 kbps | 101 MB | UL | OB |
his needs to be said at the outset. Michael Carpenter is amazing. Ever since he began his career in earnest in the late ‘90s, he’s been a purveyor and provocateur of simple, straight-forward and undeniably embracing power pop, the kind that owes nothing to pretence, but rather to the most compelling hooks possible. Over the years, he’s worked with various fellow travelers in his native Australia, and has recorded albums of cover songs as well, but through it all, he’s remained consistent to his muse and never faltered in his determination to share both his enthusiasm and his abilities.
So it’s with considerable sadness to find Carpenter declaring that The Big Radio marks the end of his solo career. The reasons aren’t exactly clear, although in his liner notes he attempts some sort of explanation. “It’s just really hard to find the time, money and reason to keep making my own records,” he writes. If in fact that’s the case, it is a total tragedy.
While one might respect his wishes, that last comment deserves some kind of rebuttal. The reason he ought to continue is the reason his records are so fine in the first place. Simply stated, it’s because he makes records so well. The songs are positively effusive; in truth, it’s damn near impossible to listen to tracks like “Don’t Open That Door,” “She’s In Love With Herself,” “I Kissed a Girl,” and practically every other offering on this album and not feel an instant connection. There are enough hooks here to outfit a fishing expedition, enough indelible melodies and refrains to keep listeners coming back for thousands of years. And the fact that Carpenter is responsible for all the sounds, save some backing vocals, is testimony to his talent all on its own. As its title indicates, Big Radio offers inspiration for the ages.
Consequently, we can only hope that Carpenter reverses his decision and finds a way to share his skills in a manner that’s both fiscally profitable and emotionally rewarding. But until he does change his mind, The Big Radio provides him with the lingering legacy he so decidedly deserves.