Just Blue

Article Category: Local CD Review 1 Comment

Just Blue
Below The Damage
Cherry Tonic, 2009

The word “just” is defined in many ways. Among them, “Guided by truth.” And, “Simply. Certainly.” So it’s serendipitous that the Melbourne-based duo of Just Blue embodies those definitions through simple, pure music.

In fact, moments of serendipity have followed Just Blue since Melissa Barelmann (vocals) and Chad Fagg (guitars, backing vocals) met in early 2006, brought together by a love of simple, personal songs. A musician since he was a child, Chad played in several rock and metal bands before arriving at his true home: behind an acoustic guitar. After mistaking Melissa’s voice for that of Natalie Merchant, Chad knew those soothing vocals would provide the ideal accompaniment.

Just Blue began playing covers — from Bon Jovi to Coldplay — in local coffeehouses. But they wanted more. Melissa and Chad wrote 20 original songs in just a few months. They started recording right away to capture the soul of their new creations. Of those 20 tracks, 13 of them are on their debut album, Below The Damage, featuring songs that weave Melissa’s mellow vocals with the tapestry of Chad’s acoustic guitar. The authenticity of the album even extends to its packaging — Chad put the finishing touches on the CD by designing the artwork. In addition to Natalie Merchant, major influences for Just Blue include singer/songwriters like Missy Higgins, Jewel, Shawn Mullins, Matt Nathanson, Glen Phillips, Joshua Radin, Damien Rice and Mindy Smith. Enjoy this acoustic duo’s debut CD, filled with songs about love, loss and a little bit of hope.

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