JOE DOLCE
THE WIND CRIES MARY

Yes, he is that Joe Dolce, the frank in your face singer who received international acclaim in the early 1980s with his release 'Shaddap You Face'. While that song has been dubbed as one of the most memorable of the '80s, and also has the auspicious title of the 'worst song ever recorded' whilst remaining one of the most successful songs in Australian music history, it isn't a reflection of the real Joe Dolce and his consummate musical ability. The Wind Cries Mary is a testament to this.

This is his first release since 2000 and cements Dolce's reputation as one of the country's premier songwriters. His lyrical compositions are delightful to listen to, the words fit together like a perfect puzzle and while their contrast to the music and their rhythmic sense is appealing, it is also the stories behind the songs that are beautiful. Then there is that Dolce humour that shows through, especially in songs such as 'Smokin', where his clever witty lyrics are divine.

The tracks themselves are depictions of Dolce's life, often private parts of himself he isn't afraid to share with audiences, as well as occurrences throughout history that have offered him inspiration.

From the first song 'St. Valentine's Day', where Dolce croons 'music is your occupation, sometimes it's like working on your damn vacation", it is an avid description of his life as a working musician. It is this endearing personal quality that hits home with his music, and despite the song's sometimes upbeat instrumentation, his message will resonate with anyone.

Dolce's track 'Lynetta' is another demonstration of his musical ability, it is sung entirely in French. The music moves from strong upbeat guitar focused tracks with impressive percussion and laid-back tunes where Dolce's unique voice is the focus.

Its country-twang and blues instrumentation makes this album a pleasure to listen to - a far cry from the 1981 hit that made Joe Dolce a household name.