It’s finally arrived! Yesterday I received my *signed copy* of Josh Pyke’s debut album Memories & Dust (pictured). The songs are awesome and overall the album is much more happier sounding than his EP, Feeding the Wolves. My favourite tracks so far are Forever Song and Mannequins, and I find they’re stuck in my head all day and that’s only after a couple of listens. His classic Middle Of the Hill is the only track from the EP to make it to the album, which is how it should be since you don’t buy an album expecting only 5 new songs. And it fits in with the other tracks seamlessly.

I really have to hand it to Josh for just being so damn bloody talented. When I first heard him on Triple J (almost a year ago now) I remembered he clearly stood out amongst some of the crap they play (come on, some of it is truly awful but no ads, so hey…) Initially I was hesitant to jump straight into the deep end with his music, as some of the lyrics seemed a bit too literal, but when I heard the EP I saw the light and was totally hooked. Goldmines blew me away with its catchy acoustic riffs, and overt environmentalism. I’m still not exactly sure what it’s about but it’s trying to make a point, without being preachy or obnoxious which I truly admire. Usually when I’m not sure about an artist or show I’ll give them more airplay until I decide either way. Fortunately, Josh’s music grows on me the more I listen to it then I end up really loving it. The same thing happened with The Presets and Pendulum.

If you’re a fan and don’t have this album yet click over to JB and if you’re quick you might get one of the signed copies while they still have some. I’ve examined the signature in detail and it’s definitely authentic (not printed). I wonder how many he signed, the poor guy!