Album Review: Felix Riebl - Paper Doors

Felix Riebl's second solo record Paper Doors reveals a decidedly more ethereal and expansive side to the highly accomplished singer-songwriter.

It's all but impossible to listen to this solo work and not draw some parallels to The Cat Empire, but with Paper Doors, the wisecracking lyrics and frenetic energy are dialled right back. The album opens with its title track, a softly spoken number presented with minimal fuss, but the perfect introduction for what is to come. Wasting Time is the first of three duets featured on Paper Doors — for a solo record Riebl is certainly spoiled for company. Here Katy Steele, of Little Birdy fame, adds an extra layer to the wistful piano melody but, as always, it's Riebl's voice that remains the hero. Just like with The Cat Empire, Riebl defies any kind of reductive genre label - he draws from a very broad cross-section of musical influences. Emily Lubitz of Tinpan Orange guests on Snowflakes, while Martha Wainwright appears on In Your Arms. Riebl understands the value of silence, bringing almost as much feeling and tension to the soft pauses as the he does during a big vocal crescendo.

The album slowly unravels across the ten tracks, unveiling unique and interesting melodies and arrangements along the way. It offers momentary glimpses into the seemingly endless pit of musical talent and expertise that has all but made Riebl, and his fellow The Cat Empire members, national treasures.