LUKE Steele's a strange cove. And not just because he's an Aussie. Despite ditching three sets of bandmates along the way, he has managed to complete a follow-up to 2003's debut, Lovers that comes on like its logical successor without ever sounding obvious.
Clearly the boy Steele fancies himself as the Antipodean answer to Phil Spector, Brian Wilson, Joe Meek and Charles Stepney rolled into one.
Personality is loaded with spacious pop soundscapes that drill cute harmonies with lush orchestration and kooky lyrics.
Add in a touch of Todd Rundgren, a hint of the High Llamas and a splash of Mercury Rev and you have a vague handle on what he's about.
If sometimes the sound suggests wrapping you in its warm blanket, that's not always such a bad thing.
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