slumberland records

keeping it foolish since 1989

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"Capricornia" is the first single from the eagerly anticipated second album from Allo Darlin' entitled Europe. Achingly personal, incredibly poignant and familiar all at once, Elizabeth Morris' songwriting has deepened and developed since their debut, and while the upcoming album may have a more sombre feel to it "Capricornia" shows that they'e lost none of their ability to create sophisticated, intelligent pop music with an uplifting, joyous feel. And for those of you wondering exactly what "Capricornia" is all about, Elizabeth explains:

"Capricornia is the area in Queensland that I'm from. It has imaginary state lines, roughly around the Tropic of Capricorn, which runs directly through my hometown. There's a nice 70s monument that marks the spot where the line passes, out on a lonely dirt road where all the kids learn how to drive. My family have lived in this area for over 6 generations but none of my generation remain. It's a beautiful place.

Musically, when we first discussed the album with our producer, I suggested that the feel of Europe should be somewhere between 'A New England' by Kirsty MacColl and 'Cattle and Cane' by The Go-Betweens. I think this song is the closest to that."

Indeed, "Capricornia" is a lovely bit of jangle-pop that rides in with a country-inflected lilt and ends with an impressive bit of guitar squall. In between you get all the melodic beauty that we've come to expect from Allo Darlin', a master class in how to write a proper pop tune. "When You Were Mine" on the flip side is no mere "b-side" -- it's an excellent folky tune of love lost that's sure to pull the heartstrings. Comparison to The Go-Betweens and the late Ms MacColl are apt, not to mention The Lucksmiths and Camera Obscura; this is thoughtful, creative pop of the first order and a wonderful preview for the superb Europe.