Steve Kilbey, one of Australia’s most revered artists, has once again captivated audiences with his latest album, The Road to Tibooburra. Accompanied by the immensely talented Winged Heels, Kilbey delivers a collection of tracks that are both compelling and enigmatic, offering a musical journey filled with dynamic storytelling and masterful instrumentation.
The origins of The Road to Tibooburra can be traced back to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when Kilbey met filmmaker Julian, who cast him in a silent film titled Space Junk. The film followed a stranger, played by Kilbey, navigating a surreal, pandemic-stricken Australian town filled with extraterrestrial encounters and local hostility. Julian later reimagined the project as a musical, centering around an ageing rockstar named Lord Jim (once again portrayed by Kilbey), who embarks on an otherworldly quest to Tibooburra in search of a career revival.
Entrusted with writing all the songs for this ambitious endeavor, Kilbey worked alongside The Winged Heels—comprised of elite musicians who also contributed to his albums 11 Women and The Hall of Counterfeits—to craft a soundtrack that embodies the spirit of the musical while standing as an extraordinary album in its own right.
This exceptional release boasts 14 tracks, each offering a unique sonic experience. The album kicks off with Adrift, a mesmerizing and intricately composed piece that sets the stage for the eclectic journey ahead. As the album progresses, tracks like Desert Ship and Silver City Highway showcase The Winged Heels’ ability to seamlessly blend rock, folk, and experimental sounds. The latter track, a high-energy rock anthem, stands out with Barton Price’s (ex-Models) powerful drumming, alongside Gareth Koch and Roger Mason’s (Icehouse, Divinyls) electrifying guitar work, all anchored by Kilbey’s signature bass and evocative vocals.
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One of the standout moments on the album is Too Late to Die Young, an up-tempo rock ‘n’ roll tune that embraces a nostalgic 70s piano vibe. With lyrics like “rock ‘n’ roll is stupid but it’s fun,” the track revels in its carefree energy, featuring Kilbey’s iconic 12-string guitar and tight, masterful instrumentation. Another highlight is Morning After, a mid-tempo, Dylan-esque gem that allows each musician to shine in a more relaxed, introspective setting. This semi-acoustic number delivers a powerful yet laid-back resonance, proving Kilbey’s ability to craft diverse and engaging compositions.
Steve Kilbey is a multi-faceted artist whose career spans decades as a singer, songwriter, bassist, painter, poet, and actor. Best known as the frontman of The Church, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry, particularly with the timeless classic Under the Milky Way, which earned the Best Single of the Year award at the 1989 Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Awards. In recognition of his contributions to music, Kilbey and his bandmates were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.
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Beyond his work with The Church, Kilbey has built an extensive solo discography and collaborated with musicians worldwide, continuously pushing creative boundaries and solidifying his status as one of Australia’s most beloved artists. With The Road to Tibooburra, Steve Kilbey & The Winged Heels invite listeners on a sonic voyage that transcends time and space, mirroring the surreal journey of its protagonist, Lord Jim.
The album is an extraordinary release that showcases Kilbey’s unparalleled storytelling and musical talent. Whether you choose to decipher its mysterious narrative or simply lose yourself in its mesmerizing melodies, one thing is certain—this album is an unforgettable experience that stands as one of Kilbey’s finest works to date.
Check the link below, discover more about Steve Kilbey & The Winged Heels and their music, and remember to add their songs to your favorite playlists!
Album Links: The Road To Tibooburra
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