Cousteau - Nova Scotia

  by Anthony Strutt

published: 24 / 3 / 2005

Label: Endeavour
Format: CD

intro

Long-awaited third album from much acclaimed torch balladeers Cousteau, who, despite losing their main songwriter, have come up with an album that " is very elegant in its depictions of tales of love and loss"

Cousteau's new album has been a long time coming, mainly as a result of the band losing their main songwriter Davey Ray Moor who has now gone solo. Vocalist Liam McKahey, guitarist Robin Brown, bassist Joe Peet and drummer Craig Vear, however, all remain from the original line-up, and their new record and third album, 'Nova Scotia', is very elegant in its depictions of tales of love and loss. Even losing Moor hasn't stopped them from producing a great record. It opens up with 'Sadness', which has driving acoustic guitars. These are backed up by Liam's golden vocal chords, before the rest of the band kick in, gelling the track into place. It floats along well, with some very pleasant harmonies before a lovely guitar break drives the tune forward. 'Sometime' sees Cousteau in Scott walker country. Liam sings in a jazz style, but the tune has a post rock experimental feel. Scott would be proud if he got offered a song like this to sing. 'She's Not Coming Back' finds Cousteau in familiar territory. Both a very sad guitar and piano lead the way to what is the stand out track on the album. Cousteau do despair like no one else, and do it damn well. 'There She Goes' starts with a soulful funky bass, but ends up being something of a rocker and has a strong lead vocal. 'To Sail Away,' is slow and as jazzy as they come, but again gets rockier as it progresses. 'Echoes' has a homely piano. It has the feel of deep snow filled winter, but has an even paced beat which is as smooth as coffee. 'Black Heart of Mine' merges a Tindersticks/Nick Cave groove with a 'Blue Velvet' vibe. It is Cousteau at their best. 'Highly' has perfect slow drums, and a very deep double bass, which shows off Liam's jazz style very well. 'PIA' is very short, and very slow with only piano backing Liam's soft vocal. 'Happening' ends the album with a Scott Walker croon and even paced backing that brings the album to an affirmative close.

Track Listing:-