Weirder & Weirder

Album review

In a world full of uncertainty, it's commonplace that an album is pushed back, but to receive an album early? Now that is a blessing. 
With six albums already under the Brisbane quintets belt, Ball Park Music are back with a seventh album that is pure BPM through and through. Written during the pandemic with no particular direction in mind, this latest release is anything but a 'COVID-19' record, and is instead a commentary on how the world, and the band's music, just keeps on getting weirder and weirder. 

From the first track, "Manny", a classic Ball Park Music protest song against cellphones, you are captivated by the wobbly yet charming sound that is so recognisably them. The entire album is drenched in interesting yet wholesomely recognisable sounds. Stand out tracks include the feel-good summer anthem "Sunscreen" and the rose-tinted "Stars in My Eyes," which is reminiscent of the optimistic nostalgia the band created with their last record, Ball Park Music, in particular the fan favourite "Cherub."

Title track "Weirder and Weirder" is raw and full of harmonies tinged with melancholy, "Beautiful Blueberries" is a pure and honest love song, and closing track "Three Little Words" is quintessential Ball Park Music, with a solid musical foundation, just the right amount of quirk and that sanguine sound that the band has, and will always be loved for. 

On an album with so many stand out tracks, there are no fillers here. Weirder and Weirder is best enjoyed all the way through. Pay special attention to the themes addressed by vocalist Sam Cromack as he sprinkles his optimistic wisdom over the tracks. Depending on your taste there is surely a handful of songs that will be the perfect addition to your daily music rotation, adding a sense of light-hearted Aussie joy to your everyday life. © Jessica Porter-Langson / Qobuz