Howling Bells – Heartstrings

London-based Sydney outfit Howling Bells deliver a folk/blues/Americana-inspired fifth album with the release of Heartstrings.

The album starts out with a punch with opening tracks Paris and Possessed having a distinct rock and roll vibe accentuated by dark vocals from front woman Juanita Stein. Throughout there is an inherent sadness to the lyrics, complemented by grinding guitar riffs and drums.

Sadly though, the album loses steam in the second half, moving away from rock and roll and getting caught up in ballads. Only Paper Hearts with its stripped back piano and vocals stands apart from the rest. (JA)

*** /5

BY JAMIE APPS