Paul Kelly & Charlie Owen - Death's Dateless Night (LP)

Paul Kelly, the iconic Australian singer-songwriter, has teamed up with guitarist Charlie Owen to create a mesmerizing and emotionally charged album titled "Death's Dateless Night." Released in 2016, this collaborative effort showcases the duo's unique interpretation of songs about death and mortality, resulting in a hauntingly beautiful collection of tracks.

The album opens with a cover of Leonard Cohen's "Bird on a Wire," setting the tone for the introspective journey that lies ahead. Kelly's distinctive voice, filled with warmth and vulnerability, perfectly complements Owen's delicate guitar work, creating a captivating atmosphere throughout the record. Their stripped-down arrangements allow the lyrics to take center stage, evoking a sense of intimacy and introspection.

One of the standout tracks on the album is their rendition of Townes Van Zandt's "To Live Is to Fly." Kelly's heartfelt delivery and Owen's intricate guitar playing breathe new life into this classic, capturing the essence of Van Zandt's poetic songwriting. The duo's interpretation is both melancholic and uplifting, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and grace.

Another highlight is their cover of Hank Williams' "Angel of Death." Kelly's soulful vocals and Owen's haunting guitar create a chilling atmosphere, perfectly capturing the somber nature of the song. The duo's rendition pays homage to the original while adding their own unique touch, resulting in a captivating and emotionally charged performance.

Throughout the album, Kelly and Owen explore various musical styles and genres, showcasing their versatility as musicians. From the bluesy rendition of Neil Young's "Birds" to the folk-infused take on Dylan's "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right," they effortlessly navigate different sonic landscapes, adding their own distinct flavor to each track.

One of the album's standout original compositions is "Pallet on Your Floor." Written by Kelly, the song beautifully captures the themes of loss and longing that permeate the album. Kelly's poignant lyrics, combined with Owen's delicate guitar work, create a deeply moving and introspective experience for the listener.

"Death's Dateless Night" is not an album that shies away from the darker aspects of life. It embraces the inevitability of death and explores the emotions that surround it with honesty and vulnerability. Kelly and Owen's ability to convey these complex emotions through their music is a testament to their artistry and the deep connection they share as collaborators.

In terms of production, the album is beautifully recorded, allowing the nuances of Kelly's vocals and Owen's guitar playing to shine through. The stripped-down arrangements and minimalistic approach enhance the raw and intimate nature of the songs, creating an immersive listening experience.

Overall, "Death's Dateless Night" is a remarkable collaboration between two talented musicians. Paul Kelly and Charlie Owen have crafted an album that is both emotionally resonant and musically captivating. Their interpretations of classic songs, as well as their original compositions, showcase their immense talent and ability to connect with the listener on a profound level.

Whether you are a fan of Paul Kelly, Charlie Owen, or simply appreciate thought-provoking and emotionally charged music, "Death's Dateless Night" is an album that deserves your attention. It is a testament to the power of music to explore the depths of human emotions and provide solace in the face of mortality.