One of the Cornwall's favourite Australian exports, The Beautiful Girls, are to play a summer show at the Walkabout in Newquay on June 14th. The gig will coincide with the release of their new album "Ziggurats" which is set to be another stunning fusion of influences ranging from roots, reggae and hip-hop.
The three piece, headed up by Matt McHugh, whose original musical plan was highjacked on his return to Australia from New York where he was living in 2001 to record some demos. These demos were the beginning of The Beautiful Girls as we know them today, who almost immediately drew comparisons with the likes of Ben Harper, Jack Johnson and Nick Drake. Championed by Triple J, Australia's national music radio station, and with support slots with Mason Jennings and Slightly Stoopid, as well as tracks on several surf DVDs and videos, the band quickly found a loyal following, both at home and in Europe.
The music itself is a glory of many styles, telling of McHugh's childhood, infused with Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and Tijuna Brass courtesy of his father. McHughs fascination with all types of music continues and this is immediately apparent when you hear the music of The Beautiful Girls. "I love hip-hop for it's lyrics and groove" he says "I love blues for it's desperation and soul...dub for it's bass lines".
The new album shows a further progression from the last, "We're Already Gone", taking some of the elements of white reggae, and pushing them away from roots, into a post punk style, with the occasional nod to The Clash and Dexy's Midnight Runners, through to The Police. True to previous form, the band have used additional musicians and collaborations to great effect, with keys, a brass section and some stunning melodica making the songs far more than the sum of their parts.
With a sincerity that shines through, it seems that passion and conviction are the main concerns with the songs of The Beautiful Girls: "without them it's just sound" says McHugh.
The Beautiful Girls will perform at the Walkabout in Newquay on June 14th. Support details to be announced. Tickets are £10, available from Buzz Bar in Newquay, www.seetickets.com (0871 2200260 24hr), and Fopp and Solo in Truro. All subject to booking fee. Strictly over 18's only.
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