Album Review: Kingfisha - Kingfisha

The debut LP from Brisbane's Kingfisha has been a long time coming for fans of the six-piece reggae/dub band. Three longtime friends and bandmates laid down some demos all the way back in 2004 but it wasn't until 2008 that the full live band was realised with additional members and an EP recorded live in the studio. Kingfisha have spent the last four years honing their sound and touring up and down the East Coast and on the roots festival circuit, which has only fuelled the anticipatory fire further. After some difficulties with self-production, the appointment of Paulie B (The Beautiful Girls) as producer has seen Kingfisha's self-titled debut come to fruition.

The extended time in the studio and introduction of an outside producer has certainly paid dividends for Kingfisha's sound. The pristine feel of the record makes each instrument stand clear from the others. This is particularly evident for bassist Shannon Green, whose heavy lines run through this record as the driving force. The overall polish matches perfectly with the sweet soul of vocalist Anthony Forrest. First single and album opener Looking Glass is a highlight with its contemplative theme worked into an easy hook. The soft guitar skank works well under the dub while some minimalist electronics from Michael Howes add depth. The same basic formula is repeated for almost every track on Kingfisha but is never as effective as it is on the first cut. The album is consistent and other tracks do provide good moments, such as the melodica interlude on Let You Know or the weighty chorus vocals on Your Welcome, yet it feels that more could be done with their sound. The slowed tempo and atmospherics of Wise Up provides a glimpse into what can be produced when Kingfisha move beyond their established formula.

All the elements are there. If Kingfisha are willing to extend their musical limits they will be a very successful band.