Angus and Julia Stone

The times are a-changing - at least when it comes to Australian pop music culture.  Brother and sister dynamic duo Angus and Julia Stone, currently on their North American tour are nominated for six ARIA Awards giving this happy twosome something else to sing about. 

Big Jet Plane off their sophomore album "Down the Way" is nominated for Single of the Year - simply amazing for any indie group, even more so after being told  their music wasn't main stream enough for commercial radio. Sweet vindication- not only are they being recognized by the industry that IS main stream for their  single they are also nominated for the coveted Album of the Year  award along with 4 other nominations. It seems that  the Aussies have stopped letting the over night pop sensations determine what relevant music is and are now putting substantial music on the forefront . Bravo!


Angus and Julia offer an eclectic style of folk, acoustic, rock and blues proving that good music does, in fact cross many genres. The Stones' earthy, soft spoken vocals are soothing to the ears and their harmonies are an understated delight. "The Devil's Tears" beautifully exemplifies ghostly sounds when he sings: "I'll taste the Devil's tears. Drink from his soul but I'll never give up you ..." ooh nice lyrics, Angus! Deep much? The notion that a guy would take on the Devil for his love would sweep any girl off her feet! It is a beautiful song. I also liked "Paper Aeroplane" its a simple song that only has a few notes that repeat itself throughout but still emits emotion - perfect. 
The Stones have worldwide appeal, living in London and briefly in the States while writing their music (California, and Queens, NY) the influence is notable in songs like "Yellow Brick Road" and Julia's sweet cover of "Your The One That I Want" from Greece fame. 
Julia has an interesting innocent sound much like a little girl quality to her voice- it's simply charming. Some have compared her to  a young Loretta Lynn meets Stevie Knicks; her fractal vocals you will either find candy apple sweet or annoying cutesy, but I think they add a compelling element  complimenting her brothers smoky, soft spoken vocals nicely.  
Songwriting is a talent they both posses giving Angus and Julia alternate leads on their music lending a variety not often heard on other collaborative duos. Their individuality remains intact while producing music people want to hear, in their case at least, sibling rivalry seems not to be a factor.












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