The Go-Betweens

Oceans Apart finds the legendary Aussie cult band in top form, with both Grant McLennan and Robert Forester turning in beautifully written, smartly arranged songs. "Boundary Rider," an unencumbered beauty with graceful lines and a subtle yet indelible hook, and the feistier "Finding You" are but two of the highlights on this solid CD.

Now in the sixth year of a comeback that's found them polishing the elusive, delicately
rockin' romanticism of their Eighties masterworks, Australia's answer to R.E.M. are on a roll.
With Grant McLennan and Robert Forster working up poetry both wise and wiseass over
well-ornamented strumming, newcomers will hear a seductively pretty indie-pop record,
while their still-ballooning cult can marvel at the sound of their iridescent melodi... More >

Robert's songs more tuneful in their maturity, Grant's more atmospheric, they punch 'em all up to make a stronger impression than on their comeback album, thus proving that it was one. Settled down in real life, Robert recaptures his peripatetic past with a clear conscience and a sharp eye; still questing, Grant couches his romanticism in instrumental subtleties that soften his detachment. Robert so fond, Grant so elusive, both so beguiling, they're deeply civilized for the leaders of a working rock band. And for just that reason they can follow the calling until that distant day when strumming itself is too much for them. (Grade - A)