Released: 02/09

Australia; not only home to Ramsey Street and Nicole Kidman, but also a certain Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore – otherwise known as duo Empire Of The Sun.

This impressive debut is a concept album based around a cult (and little known) film called ‘The Holy Mountain’. Please don’t let that put you off. Equally don’t be put off by the Dali/Bowie-esque illustrations on the album cover. It’s not as these would suggest a record that can only be enjoyed by art and film students who pride themselves on being ‘out there’, this album is made to be enjoyed by everyone and listened to at every conceivable music-listening opportunity; making the journey to work, at a party, or even a festival. It really is something many ages could equally enjoy but is cutting edge and contemporary at the same time.

The talented Australian duo has produced ten tracks of electronic synthpop loveliness. The best songs being the title track, Walking On A Dream, and We Are The People. Both of these tracks are simply smashing and utterly fantastic. Thankfully, the remaining eight tracks on the album are very good too, definitely no filler here. The song Country would be best listened to whilst watching the sunset, it’s just beautiful. The vocals too are so sharp and polished they could cut through steel - this is the sort of album that wins awards or at least deserves to.

2009 could easily be the year that Empire Of The Sun hit the big-time, in a big way. Stay ahead of the crowd and do make sure you check out this gem as soon as you can.

www.walkingonadream.com

Fay Harley