Music Under Fire

The subtleties about the new album from Andrew Keese and the Associates are what makes each listen a dazzling showcase for the Aussies' emotionally-stained rock message of Desire.

For a lamenting harmony and a down-toned set of vocals from Keese, it might seem hard to really grasp at any tangible hook. Throughout each song, whether it be a piano and violin oriented hymn or a soft guitar ode, a message with a somewhat spiritual vibe strides ahead.

This finely rehearsed record strings messages of remembrance, hope and a struggle of relationships. Thanks to Keese (vocals, guitar, piano) and bandmates Andrew Cowie (drums), Phil Smith Major (bass) and Sunny Leunig (guitar), the symmetry and simplicity helps Desire reach further than any electronic enhancements would take from it.

Overall, this simplicity is the backbone of the album. Don't expect for any track to jump out since this album doesn't revolve around refrains and guitar solos. Lyrically, Desire holds nothing back although vocally it never cries out with any pent-up hysterics, which could have ruined it terribly or sent this album to another level. For fans of

Andrew Keese and the Associates are based out of Melbourne, Australia and the album Desire was recorded in 2007 with the help of producer Tony Cohen (Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, The Go-Betweens, The Beasts of Bourbon). A free version and deluxe versions of this album can be found at the group's website.

MP3: Andrew Keese and the Associates - The Shadows