Cities On The Sea marks the beginning of a new era for Melbourne-based band The Dead Leaves. This is the band’s second album, but the first that is a true group effort; their first album, The Messenger, was more of a solo outlet for frontman Matt Joe Gow with the other members serving as his backing band.

Cities On The Sea sounds like a band evolving and undertaking a beautiful sonic journey to find their defining sound. The album was recorded at iconic BJB studio in Sydney with the help of Scott Horscroft and Eric J. Dubowsky who, between them, have produced everyone from Art vs. Science and The Presets to Birds of Tokyo and even Weezer.

The Dead Leaves’ sound is reminiscent of the sombre, brooding tunes bought to you by The National; there’s a moody and melancholy vibe that is well executed in particular songs such as ‘Never Had A Lover’, ‘Ordinary Lot’ and ‘This Must Be The Place’. I feel this record improves the deeper you listen to it and it definitely shines in the second half of the twelve songs on offer.

The band include some songs that, in contrast to some of the moodier tracks, make songs such as ‘In My Surrender’, ‘Harm’ and ‘Everybody’s Lost Someone’ sound somewhat poppy and upbeat. Killer track 'Changing' also features guest vocals from newcomer Emma Louise whose song 'Jungle' recently featured in Triple J's Hottest 100. Essential tracks for listening include opener ‘If The Shoe Fits’, ‘Ordinary Lot’ and ‘If Anyone Asks’.

A wonderful offering from a band who helm well-crafted songs and seem capable of turning their hand at a number of different sounds and styles - always a handy ability to have!

Review Score: 7.8 out of 10

Cities On The Sea is out this Friday, 24th February through Liberation Music. Be sure to catch The Dead Leaves on their East Coast tour throughout March.