MUCH like its cover art’s abstract collage of colours, Paint is an album of dense experimentation. After the success of Holy Holy’s debut album When The Storms Would Come, you could forgive Tim Carroll (vocals/guitar) and Oscar Dawson (guitar) for sticking to their established folk-rock formula.
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However, Holy Holy have expanded their sonic palette enormously on Paint, introducing 80s synths and prog rock guitar theatrics. Opening singles Darwinism and Elevator are the most commercial cuts, but throughout Carroll never forsakes melody in exploration. Dawson’s intricate riffs again play a starring role, especially on the prog rock epics Willow Tree and Shadow and the frenzied Gilded Age. There are deep layers to Paint to reward multiple listens.
Josh Leeson
Josh Leeson is an entertainment and features journalist, specialising in music, at the Newcastle Herald. He first joined the masthead in 2008 after stints at the Namoi Valley Independent and Port Stephens Examiner and has previously covered sport including the Asian Cup, A-League, Surfest, cricket and rugby league.
Josh Leeson is an entertainment and features journalist, specialising in music, at the Newcastle Herald. He first joined the masthead in 2008 after stints at the Namoi Valley Independent and Port Stephens Examiner and has previously covered sport including the Asian Cup, A-League, Surfest, cricket and rugby league.
