Some first-release records hit like hurricanes this year – these are just five of the best debuts I heard in 2020.
BOYSCLUB – SHE, THE ATROCITY
Taking no prisoners from the first recorded notes, Boysclub started with a roar of speed and a clear statement of intent – no compromise, no grey area. It also left no doubt as to their potential for chaos and wonder in the year to come.
SEATHRU – BEDSHEETS
Fizzing with bubbles, Seathru burst into life this year with ‘Bedsheets’, an absolute thrill of a track chock full of youth and energy. So much potential you’d put your back out trying to lift it.
SARAH CHERLIN – SMALL MACHINES
With an opera-trained voice, Sarah Cherlin’s debut EP was a dazzling display of deep musical talent spread thickly over a slice of rich songwriting. Glorious.
ELIZABETH FADER – ENCORE
While a longtime live favourite, this year we finally got treated to recorded music to fill in the too-long gaps between shows, and it was as dreamy and soaring as the stage version.
SOSO – THE HENRY LAWSON JIVE
SoSo’s debut crashed into the room and didn’t even use a door, a grinning mad ‘un of a track that promptly set up camp on the sofa and drank all your booze.
Live photos are mine, Seathru promo shot by Pat O’ Hara
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