November 9th, 2009 3:11 am

Guy Sebastian: “Like It Like That”

Guy Sebastian seems to have really found a sound that works with “Like It Like That”. An album clearly inspired by his previous motown education on “The Memphis Album”.

It’s taken him three originals and one cover album to get here, but it seems Guy Sebastian may have finally struck gold with his latest outing “Like It Like That” — not in the top 40 sense, but creatively as an artist.

There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that Sebastian’s previous ‘Memphis’ record has inspired him like no other. From the first beat of his new album, it screams soul. It’s bold, brash, but it works —  it really works.

It’s probably one of the most cohesive albums from Sebastian to date. Listening from start to finish, you truly feel like you’ve experienced a musical journey.

The title track “Like It Like That”, which everyone already knows from Seven’s on air idents, is possibly one of Sebastian’s greatest singles ever. It’s foundations of soul and the accompanying surf guitar makes for a truly addictive 4-minutes.

The second track on the album “All To Myself” is like a bizarre, yet intriguing fusion of old and new. The verses are reminiscent of Maroon 5’s distinctive funk rock sound, yet the chorus is easily motown inspired. It’s quite an odd mix as first, but it actually becomes far more palatable on repeat listens.

Next up is the RnB single “Art of Love”, which Sebastian has recruited ‘American Idol’ winner Jordin Sparks to lend her vocals. It’s likely to be a huge chart topper for Sebastian, and possibly his big break into the US market, but a little misplaced on a motown inspired album. It would however feel right at home alongside Sparks’ similarly powerful duet with Chris Brown, “No Air”.

The track “Attention” does just that — it grabs your attention with its big swinging sounds, courtesy of the precise orchestration of instruments.

“Bring Yourself” is a standout track on the album. It encompasses everything you’d want and expect from a slow jam session. Even the Prince of Motown, Marvin Gaye, would feel comfortable singing this impressive track.

Other notable tracks include “Magic” and “Never Hold You Down”, neither of which are single worthy, but  run with the soulful swing of motown. Derivative, but none-the-less gallant efforts.

The final track “Perfection”, diverts from the motown vibe just once more to offer a rather sickly sweet romantic ballad. Clearly a serenade to his newly-wed wife. It’s poetically beautiful, but amongst the rest of the album, again a little misplaced.

The album, while not without its flaws, is definitely one of the most artistically complex records we’ve heard from an ‘Australian Idol’ artist to date.

It’s rich, multi-layered  and engaging. The motown influences are clear, and it just feels right for Sebastian to be playing in this space. We look forward to seeing where he takes these talents next.

“Like It Like That” is out now.

Buy the album on iTunes.