ALBUM REVIEW: LIFE LESSONS FOR LOCKDOWN WITH THE LIEMBACH’S; LIME CORDIALE - 14 STEPS TO A BETTER YOU
Pictured: Sydney duo Lime Cordiale release their sophomore album 14 Steps To A Better You
Image: Jack Shepherd
During times of isolation, many have turned to self-help books, podcasts, and Youtube videos to use this down time for introspection, to come out the other side a new version of ourselves for those sweet, sweet post-iso moments of freedom. Few turn to music for self-help lessons, and with the release of Sydney’s pop-rock outfit Lime Cordiale’s sophomore album, 14 Steps To A Better You, maybe it’s time we should?
Lime Cordiale have established themselves as one of Australia’s greatest contemporary pop-rock bands, which is partly reflected by the sheer amount of support they receive from their fellow Australian fans. During Triple J’s Hottest 100 of 2019, Lime Cordiale landed a whopping 4 songs under the top forty bracket, which is an incredible feat for any artist, particularly Australian artists.
Since they released their debut EP Faceless Cat in 2012, Lime Cordiale – consisting of brothers Oli and Louis Leimbach – have amassed over 100,000 followers on Instagram, and have played countless gigs across Australia and overseas with touring band members James Jennings, Felix Bornholdt, and Nick Polovineo.
The album’s title, 14 Steps To A Better You, is a satirical take on self-help books, with each of the 14 songs representing a lesson on how to be your best self, which is not only perfect for periods of isolation in 2020, but makes for a unique composition of the album in and of itself.
The album begins with That’s Life, which enters with some funky pop-synth notes, giving the listener a feel of a new beginning for Lime Cordiale – all whilst staying true to their bluesy 70’s sound due to the walking basslines scattered throughout. It’s a slow and steady start for the album, which gently leads us into a crowd favourite – their 2019 single Robbery.
Robbery is Lime Cordiale groove-approved, featuring the Leimbach brother’s signature brassy tones which are a product of their upbringing, as they grew up playing the clarinet and trumpet (what can’t they do?!).
Up next is No Plans To Make Plans, which begins with a resounding piano riff, and is contrasted by a fun ukulele style guitar hook. No Plans To Make Plans follows the tale of people who are insistent on climbing the ladder, whilst not necessarily contributing anything for “the greater good”. Three-quarters of the way in there’s even a kazoo which is all kinds of fun, and also reminds us why we love Lime Cordiale so much – for their versatility and diversity in musical stylings.
Also on 14 Steps To A Better You is Inappropriate Behaviour, Addicted To The Sunshine, On Our Own, Money, Screw Loose, and Dirt Cheap, all of which were singles prior to their inclusion in the final pressing.
Each and every song on this album is incredibly eccentric and distinct from the next, with each song playing their part in contributing to Lime Cordiale’s quirky character, which was also partially moulded by rowdy crowds at pubs and RSLs across Sydney’s northern beaches.
Pictured: Sydney pop-rock outfit Lime Cordiale Image: Jack Shepherd
Towards the end of the album, Can’t Take All The Blame leads the band into new territory, with holographic synth sounds leading the track. This one has plenty of raw emotion, which is sustained for the next track, Dear London.
Dear London serves as Louis’ apology to a city which was tarnished due to a sour-romance. Louis’ sincerity is felt through trickling rain sounds and angelic harmonies, creating striking visuals for any keen listeners.
Last, but definitely not least, the album ends with Following Fools – which is essentially therapy in the form of a big, warm hug, courtesy of brother’s Liembach.
14 Steps To A Better You encompasses a wholesome representation of life itself, with no stone left unturned. It’s best listened to with those who are nearest and dearest, and in solitude, and with a warm cuppa on a Tuesday in winter, and a cold bevvy on a Friday in summer. Lime Cordiale have created an incredibly diverse sophomore album within 14 Steps To A Better You, which is perfect for any time of the day and for any type of person, ultimately establishing themselves as one of Australia’s most distinguishable artists.