ALBUM REVIEW: “A Book Like This” by Angus and Julia Stone

Artist: Angus and Julia Stone
Album: A Book Like This
Label: Nettwerk
Rating:
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A Book Like This is an apt name for Angus and Julia Stone’s intimate, story-weaving debut from Nettwerk Records. The brother and sister duo may hail from Australia, but their songs are familiar and immediately accessible, invoking those universal themes: heartbreak and nostalgia. The siblings both play guitar and other various instruments, trading off on lead vocals – both voices can be heard on almost every track – but Julia’s is the one that truly stands out in its quirky, Newsom-esque way. Although the production is restrained, the string arrangements are exquisite, especially on “Silver Coin.” The first two tracks on the album are the standouts, the whimsical “Mango Tree” and “Wasted,” a lament for an undeserving lover. A Book Like This is a literate and pretty album, one to pick up again and again.

- Review submitted by Amanda File.