Sunday November 26, 2023
In the dynamic Darwin music scene, Charlie Powling emerges as a folk-rock craftsman, with his latest piece, King Canute, further establishing him as a masterful storyteller in song.
This new offering builds on the success of previous tracks like Fifteen Of Fame and When My Ship Comes In, cementing Powling’s position as a premier musical raconteur.
King Canute delves into the tragic absurdity of war, weaving narratives that strike a chord on both personal and universal levels. Powling adeptly sets a scene of a man, cocooned in the supposed safety of his home, witnessing the horrors of war from a distance. This poignant imagery, heavy with emotional resonance, mirrors the futility of the man’s efforts to protect his loved one, reminiscent of the legendary King Canute’s attempt to command the tide.
The song reflects on a hopeful yet distant dream, one where the masses see through the pretence of war, a dream once held by Powling’s father and now echoed in his music. Powling’s musical evolution over the past decade is marked by a richly varied sonic palette. His self-titled debut in 2018 signalled his entry into a harmonious fusion of rock, folk, and country, drawing on influences as diverse as Mahalia Jackson and The Beatles.
His band, Charlie & The Black Pepper Band, has shown resilience and adaptability in the industry, particularly with their album Drive the Highway. Their recent works, inspired by icons like John Schumann and Bruce Springsteen and produced by the likes of Lindsay Masters and Garry (Jacko) Jackson, reinforce their commitment to a narrative-centric approach in music.
This method, where storytelling is as essential as the melody, distinguishes Powling and his band in the folk-rock landscape. This latest track isn’t just a continuation of Powling’s musical journey; it stands as a powerful testament to music’s ability to provoke deep thought and feeling, cementing his role as not just a musician but a musical storyteller of the modern age.
