Josh Pyke is one of Australia’s finest modern songwriters, and his third album Only Sparrows only confirms this title. The album is further demonstration of what Pyke is already known for: acoustic, melodic songs that tug at heartstrings. While each track demonstrates hauntingly beautiful lyrics, overall, Only Sparrow falls short of previous works, Memories & Dust and Chimney’s Afire.

Having already established his trademark sound, Pyke creates more of the same goodness on this album. The first single, “No One Wants A Lover” is the track with the most commercial appeal, due to the clapping riff and shift away from Pyke’s acoustic roots. Despite being the catchiest track off the album, it appears to be an effort by producers to propel Pyke into the mainstream market. While this is not necessarily negative, “No One Wants A Lover” feels out of place on this slow paced and melodic album. However, even in his weak moments, Pyke’s songwriting is still as strong as ever, and listeners will relate to the lyrics that focus on a failing relationship.

Pyke’s trademark sound is best showcased on “Break, Shake, Make, Matter” that follows Pyke’s past formula of a slightly monotone verse that builds to a more instrumental chorus. Although it’s been done before, it’s the sound fans will be hanging out for, and in that case, they will not be let down.

“Punch In The Heart” is a standout track, with sweet harmonies between Pyke and Katy Steele and relatable lyrics layered with metaphor such as, “Time keeps making a mess of me/I’m like a rusted old boat lost out at sea.” The track was co-written with Whitley and is true testament to each artist’s songwriting.

“Love Lies” is my favourite track off the album. With a gorgeous acoustic riff, and the non overriding presence of piano and violin, this is Josh Pyke at his best. It’s poetry in song form with lyrics such as “Courage can be written down, and practiced like a lie.”

Less inspiring tracks are “Good Head Start” and “The World Is A Picture” that stand on the fence of commercial and acoustic without choosing a side. It’s a strange mix that doesn’t sit right with Pyke, and serve as mere distractions on the album.

Put bluntly, Only Sparrows does not live up to the high expectations placed on Pyke. Despite this, there are standout tracks that will satisfy old fans and hopefully draw in some new ones.

Review Score: 7/10