Bernard Fanning – Tea & Sympathy
Bernard Fanning, the frontman of Australian radio-friendly rock band Powderfinger, showcases his affection for acoustic-based Americana to great effect on his debut solo release. Evoking at times the simple yet unforgettable melodic charm of Neil Youngs Harvest as well as the harder-edged, rootsy rawness of Rod Stewarts Gasoline Alley, the album drips with soul-stirring emotion as Fanning chronicles the painful lessons and the promise of a brighter future stemming from a failed relationship. In addition to his flair for intelligent, introspective lyrics, Fanning also has an intoxicatingly expressive voice. Especially noteworthy are his vocals on the Stonesy Sleeping Rough particularly its gospel-infused crescendo as well as on the country-flavored kiss-off Yesterdays Gone, punctuated by soaring three-part harmonies that would make Crosby, Stills & Nash blush.