- Premeditations is the sophomore album by Novocastrian, Lachlan X. Morris. Self-professed purveyor of ‘dad-rock’, Morris’ style is vexing to characterise. While his sterling debut, Ouija Board Heartbreak Tambourine, had a classic rock vibe, like something you’d belatedly find in your dad’s record collection, Premeditations is more akin to something your ‘shroom-ingesting uncle might turn you onto. Despite making it difficult to pin an accurate genre on Morris, the dichotomy is impressive. However, what’s most impressive, is Morris’ songwriting acumen and Beatlesesque penchant for melody and chord changes. Replete with psychedelic guitar tones and bombastic drum patterns, Morris has cultivated a cohesive album with a sound unlike anything pervading the Australian music scene today. Premeditations is the paragon of an album, boasting a cohesive collection of songs with a prudently curated track-list and outstanding production.
The album kicks off with its title track, a rollicking number with syncopated keys, energetic drums and a catchy chorus. After the initial hook of a short uptempo song, Morris offers an equally brief instrumental with buzzing synths and swirling guitars. Next is Stray Dog, which starts of conventionally enough before diving into an undulating layer of electric guitars and ethereal vocals that culminate in an extended outro that crescendos sublimely. Fifth track, Body n Soul, sounds like a distant cousin to Beck’s Loser, and the likeness only solidifies with the appearance of a stellar harmonica solo. An epic six-minute romper with a hammering bassline, Body n Soul serves as a powerful centrepiece to the album. Hands in Your Pockets is another highlight. An acoustic ballad hidden underneath spacy guitars and a wicked melodica solo, it shows off Morris’ songwriting skills.
A criminally unknown artist, Lachlan X. Morris shows more than promise on Premeditations; he shows true artistic genius. Premeditations is the whole package, sporting great songs, brilliant production and perfect arrangements. Enjoyable from beginning to end, Premeditations is an album for anyone who still appreciates albums.
- Jonathan Cloumassis.