Paul Kelly Album Review: A Deep Dive Into His Music

Alright guys, let's dive deep into the musical universe of Paul Kelly. If you're even remotely interested in Australian music, storytelling through song, and a voice that just resonates with authenticity, you've come to the right place. Paul Kelly isn't just a musician; he's a cultural icon, a poet laureate of the Australian landscape, and a chronicler of the human condition. So, buckle up as we explore his discography, dissect his lyrical genius, and try to understand what makes Paul Kelly such an enduring and beloved artist. His music is not just a collection of songs but a tapestry of Australian life, woven with threads of love, loss, and everything in between.

Who is Paul Kelly?

Before we get into specific albums, let's take a step back and ask: Who is Paul Kelly? Born in Adelaide, South Australia, in 1955, Kelly's career spans over four decades. He's a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and harmonica player, but more than that, he's a storyteller. His songs are often narratives, character sketches, and observations of everyday life. He draws inspiration from a wide range of genres, including rock, folk, blues, country, and even reggae. This eclectic mix gives his music a unique and distinctly Australian flavor. Kelly's lyrics are renowned for their poetic quality, their attention to detail, and their ability to capture the essence of a place or a moment. He sings about ordinary people, their struggles, their triumphs, and their dreams. He writes about the Australian landscape, its vastness, its beauty, and its harshness. And he does it all with a voice that is both distinctive and deeply moving. His early influences included Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, and the Rolling Stones, and these influences are evident in his raw, honest songwriting style. He started his career playing in pubs and clubs around Australia, honing his craft and building a loyal following. In the 1980s, he formed his band, The Coloured Girls (later renamed The Messengers), and began to achieve mainstream success. Since then, he has released numerous albums, toured extensively, and won countless awards. But through it all, he has remained true to his artistic vision, continuing to write songs that are both personal and universal.

Iconic Albums and Songs

Now, let's get into some of Paul Kelly’s iconic albums and songs. Trying to pick a definitive "best" Paul Kelly album is a fool's errand, because honestly, there are so many gems. But here are a few essential starting points. "Gossip" (1986) is often considered his breakthrough album. It features classics like "Leaps and Bounds," a song about the simple joy of watching life unfold in Melbourne, and "Before Too Long," a powerful ballad about regret and redemption. "Under the Sun" (1987) solidified his reputation as a master storyteller. Tracks like "To Her Door," a heartbreaking tale of a fractured marriage, and "Dumb Things," a catchy, upbeat tune about the foolishness of youth, showcase his range and versatility. "Post" (1985) is a more introspective and melancholic album, exploring themes of loneliness and isolation. It's a deeply personal work that reveals a different side of Kelly's artistry. "Comedy" (1991) sees Kelly experimenting with different sounds and styles, incorporating elements of funk, soul, and reggae. It's a playful and adventurous album that demonstrates his willingness to push boundaries. And, of course, no discussion of Paul Kelly's music would be complete without mentioning "From Little Things Big Things Grow," a collaboration with Kev Carmody that tells the story of the Gurindji strike, a landmark event in the struggle for Indigenous land rights. It's a powerful and moving song that speaks to the importance of justice and reconciliation.

Lyrical Genius and Storytelling

What truly sets Paul Kelly apart is his lyrical genius and storytelling ability. He has a knack for capturing the essence of Australian life in his songs, painting vivid pictures with his words. He writes about the everyday experiences of ordinary people, their hopes, their fears, and their dreams. His songs are often narratives, telling stories that are both relatable and deeply moving. Take, for example, "To Her Door." It's a simple story about a couple who drift apart, but Kelly's lyrics are so evocative and so full of detail that you feel like you know these people. You understand their struggles, their disappointments, and their regrets. Or consider "From Little Things Big Things Grow." It's a historical song, but it's also a deeply personal one. Kelly tells the story of the Gurindji strike with empathy and respect, highlighting the courage and resilience of the Indigenous people who fought for their land rights. His lyrics are often poetic, full of imagery and metaphor. He uses language in a way that is both precise and evocative, creating songs that are both beautiful and meaningful. He's a master of observation, noticing the small details that others might miss and weaving them into his songs. He's also a master of empathy, able to put himself in the shoes of others and tell their stories with compassion and understanding. This combination of lyrical genius and storytelling ability is what makes Paul Kelly such a unique and enduring artist.

The Enduring Appeal of Paul Kelly

So, what's the secret to the enduring appeal of Paul Kelly? Why do his songs continue to resonate with audiences of all ages? I reckon it's a combination of factors. First, there's his authenticity. Paul Kelly is who he is. He's not trying to be someone else. He sings about what he knows, what he feels, and what he believes in. His honesty and integrity shine through in his music, making him a relatable and trustworthy artist. Second, there's his storytelling ability. He's a master of narrative, crafting songs that are both engaging and thought-provoking. His stories are often about ordinary people, but they're told with such empathy and skill that they become universal. Third, there's his musical versatility. He's not afraid to experiment with different genres and styles, incorporating elements of rock, folk, blues, country, and even reggae into his music. This eclectic mix gives his songs a unique and distinctly Australian flavor. Fourth, there's his lyrical genius. His lyrics are often poetic, full of imagery and metaphor. He uses language in a way that is both precise and evocative, creating songs that are both beautiful and meaningful. Finally, there's the fact that his songs are simply great songs. They're well-crafted, well-written, and well-performed. They're songs that you can listen to again and again, and each time you'll discover something new. For all these reasons, Paul Kelly remains one of Australia's most beloved and respected musicians. He's a true icon, a cultural treasure, and a voice that will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, diving into Paul Kelly's discography is like embarking on a journey through the heart and soul of Australia. His music is a reflection of the country's landscape, its people, and its stories. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to his work, there's always something new to discover in his songs. So, put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and let Paul Kelly take you on a musical adventure. You won't be disappointed. His contribution to Australian music is undeniable, and his influence will continue to inspire artists for years to come. So, next time you're looking for some great tunes, give Paul Kelly a listen. You might just find your new favorite artist.