The Sleepy Jackson

The Sleepy Jackson is the illegitimate, Aussie brainchild of Luke Steele. Years in the making, the 2003 debut album Lovers contains songs from a few EPs that were recorded with a revolving cast of musicians. Through it all, Steele was able to develop and maintain the breathing spirit that lives in his music. Densely layered with multi-instrumental parts and more "na-na-nas" and "ooh-wahs" than a doo-wop sock hop, the tunes combine ingredients from several genres to present an aurally appetizing slice of sonic beauty. Country twang, power chords and sweeping strings with electro flourishes (not to mention the pop melodies that recall Pet Sounds-era Beach Boys) combine to form a blithely winsome, yet lovelorn symphony. Luke Steele’s been called the Australian Brian Wilson, high praise and a compliment to which he is oh so deserving.

LISTEN TO THIS DAY, DON'T YOU KNOW, COME TO THIS, MINISKIRT