Monday August 14, 2023
Amid the shifting terrains of today’s music world, Charlie Powling offers an earnest reflection with Fifteen of Fame. This isn’t merely a catchy track; it is a window into Powling’s navigation through the challenging waves of Hepatitis C.
His ability to fuse both personal and universal sentiments speaks volumes about his artistry. James (Gravy) Brown of the Black Pepper Band brings a distinct colour to the musical canvas. Once recognized as the band’s virtuoso guitarist, Gravy’s smooth transition to drums after Danny Thomas’s departure showcases not just his talent but also his adaptability.
His synergy with Fifteen of Fame is palpable. The song’s haunting minor key seems to accentuate and amplify Gravy’s depth as a musician. Melanie’s anecdote of a memorable evening at Dolly’s Bar paints this picture well: a warm ambiance, shared moments of anticipation, and an audience magnetically drawn into the performance.
The studio sessions were a journey in their own right. With Lindsay Masters, the discerning producer at the helm, the ensemble set out to craft a blend of steady rhythms, anchored bass, and lucid vocals. Gravy’s contribution was notably impactful. When he stepped up to interpret the song, his first take encapsulated such raw sincerity that there was a unanimous agreement on its inclusion.
There were early discussions about enriching the song with additional layers, harmonies, and instrumental flourishes. However, Charlie, recognizing the beauty in the song’s inherent simplicity, chose to keep it undiluted.
This approach is mirrored in the song’s lyrics which capture a mood of contemplative solitude, particularly evident in lines like: ‘I sit all alone, watch the setting sun / Regret and memory, they merge as one / Angels of the past, spread their wings / They fly so fast, whispering my sins.’Acknowledgements from entities like ABC LOCAL and radio outlets across NT and QLD indicate that Fifteen of Fame is not just a fleeting note but an enduring melody. It holds promise for becoming a hallmark in Charlie Powling’s evolving discography.
