Tuesday October 3, 2023
Amid the cacophony of fleeting musical novelties that often shine brightly but briefly, a beacon of true artistry emerges in Charlie Powling. In a world where countless artists vie for fleeting attention, Powling’s unwavering authenticity remains a testament to lasting excellence. Fifteen Of Fame, a previous marvel from Powling, resonated deeply, but it’s with When My Ship Comes In that he truly excels.
More than a mere track, it serves as a vessel, steering listeners through a sea of emotions and experiences. It doesn’t just play; it speaks, inviting those tuned in to traverse its soulful narratives, especially those echoing the harrowing experiences of women in the face of adversity and violence. But what makes this song stand out is not just its melodies or rollicking rhythms. It’s Powling’s unique flair to transform mere lyrics into an intimate diary entry.
He unveils, ‘I’ve been in that situation a few times in my life, when the spark, the desire, is gone, we must not dwell on the past, but move on to new horizons despite how daunting that may seem, and eventually…my Ship will come in too and carry me away to somewhere new.’ The track’s sonic depth is amplified by Garry Jackson’s guitar skills and the band’s energy.
Having been a pillar in Darwin’s music community for a decade, Powling’s blend of rock, folk, and country is a delightful concoction reminiscent of legends from Mahalia Jackson’s celestial tones to the Beatles’ revolutionary vibes. Concurrently, the efforts of Charlie & The Black Pepper Band cannot go unnoticed. With songs like Drive the Highway setting benchmarks and influences that range from the poetic John Schumann to the legendary Bruce Springsteen, they epitomize musical storytelling.
Their collaboration with production virtuosos like Lindsay Masters and Jackson only accentuates their prowess.Through its notes and lyrics, When My Ship Comes In underscores the timeless impact of genuine artistry, proving once again that music’s ability to connect, console, and elevate remains unmatched.
