Baby Blue, a Melbourne-based band, originally started as the solo project of Rhea Caldwell. Rhea, who was previously the lead guitarist for American musician Michael Beach (now based in Australia) and also played bass in the band of the renowned Gena Rose Bruce, laid the foundation for Baby Blue. After the solo phase, the band evolved into a quartet, including members from Courtney Barnett’s band, the Coastbusters, and 19th Century Strongmen. Over time, new members joined and others left, resulting in the current quintet structure.
Their music reflects a convergence of different musical sensibilities, leading to a sound that continually evolves from one record to another. If you listen to their EPs “In My Mind” (2017) and “Do What You Like” (2018) in sequence, you’ll better understand the nature of their artistic journey. And now, with their debut album “Of My Window”, Baby Blue has achieved a more consistent, coherent, and ambitious level of aesthetic-musical maturity. It’s all about the details! If you haven’t already, I recommend giving their music a listen—it’s a delightful journey through their evolving sound!
Baby Blue, a Melbourne-based band, has undergone a fascinating evolution. Their music reflects a convergence of different musical sensibilities, resulting in a sound that continually evolves from one record to another.
Let’s break it down: despite changes, Baby Blue maintains its initial musical DNA rooted in the late '60s and early '70s. Think of the ye-ye movement, Phil Spector’s girl groups (like The Ronettes and The Crystals), The Byrds, and collaborations between George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. Over time, Baby Blue’s sound gained an electric dimension. Elements of surf, garage, blues rock, and jangle pop blend with contemporary influences from the '80s and '90s. In their EP “Do What You Like” (2018), you’ll recognize influences from the '60s and ‘80s. For instance, the song “I Like You” echoes those eras. And keep an ear out for The Stone Roses’ presence (intentional or not) in “Fire and Ice.”
Now, their debut album “Of My Window” is a beautiful leap forward. It’s a must-listen! If you haven’t explored Baby Blue’s music yet, I recommend giving it a spin—it’s a delightful journey through their evolving sound! “Of My Window”, Baby Blue’s debut album, is a sonic masterpiece where every element falls into place naturally. The excellent production by Jesse Williams leaves its mark, not only on the guitars but also by highlighting the band’s collective strength. Each member of Baby Blue contributes specific details that enhance the overall sound.
Unlike those forgettable albums that lose their charm after a couple of listens, “Of My Window” is a delightful journey. It strikes the perfect balance between listener satisfaction and the desire to hear it again. Rhea Caldwell’s melodic and versatile voice adds an unmistakable trademark to Baby Blue’s songs, making them immensely enjoyable.
Among the album’s eight well-achieved and poetic songs, tracks like “Hills Hoist,” “It’s a Match,” “Closer Babe,” “Daisy Chains,” and “Human Race” breathe the same good air found in the brilliance of artists like Grant McLennan, Jack Frost and The Church, The Lucksmiths, Dick Diver, The Go-Betweens, Courtney Barnett, and Girlatones.
“Of My Window” is addictive—it deserves more live experiences not only in Australia but also across Europe. Let’s hope we won’t have to wait long for more Baby Blue concerts!
8.5/10