Review by Alanna Eileen

‘Insights’ is the debut album of WA singer-songwriter, JONNY TAYLOR.  It’s a mixture of rock and roots delivered in the form of eleven original songs that swing expertly from soulful ballads, to grungy up-tempo numbers and back again. With lyrics that explore both personal and universal subjects, these well-crafted tunes are instantly accessible; they reel you in and keep you listening.

Originally hailing from the south-west, Taylor now gigs regularly both in and around Perth.  In addition to being a former Australian Idol contestant, he has previously won a WA Country Music Award. Though he has released two EPs in the past, ‘Insights’ is Taylor’s first full-length offering.

The album begins with ‘Lover Lover’, one of the catchiest songs in Taylor’s catalogue.  With its dark lyrics and moody vocals it recalls the work of ‘90s bands like 3 Doors Down and Creed – sophisticated pop drizzled in the kind of pain and longing that make for an almost cinematic experience.

On the heartfelt ‘Baby Shaye’ the album changes tack. This track is sweet without being saccharine; a sincere – but not cloyingly sentimental – ode to a newborn child. ‘Spike’s Song’ maintains the family theme before the excellent folk-rock of track three – ‘Love Will Come Around’ – emerges as one of the album’s highlights. Taylor sings of “Going ‘round in circles/Looking for the answers” and not knowing why.

The pace picks up considerably on ‘Wasting Away’. With its powerful chorus and solid backing, this track has the quality of a rock anthem.  The lyrics are full of a nearly palpable anguish that lends added potency to the arrangement: “I’m wasting away,” Taylor sings, “I want you to know/That you started all of this”. ‘Bulletproof’ and ‘Special K’ traverse similar melodic territory, featuring great hooks and heavy drums.

Things quieten down again on the peaceful closer ‘At Least to Clear My Head’, a slow burning ballad of a track that proves to be the perfect finish. Like those that precede it, this track is beautifully produced, allowing Taylor’s talent ample space to shine through – the vocals here are particularly memorable.

It seems like the entire gamut of human emotion is displayed on ‘Insights’. Taylor moves from tales of tragedy and frustration to love songs and back again. The record’s title is also appropriate; this collection of songs really does feel like a compilation of insights, delivered with clarity, passion and skill. There is no doubt that Taylor is an accomplished songwriter and musician; it will be interesting to see his work continue to evolve on future releases.