STACK #203 Sep 2021

FEATURE MUSIC

The song the sisters were perhaps most concerned with getting perfect was the superb, soaring closer, The Long View . And that‘s because it was penned by the man who‘s “like a brother" to the duo (says Linda), Paul Kelly. “We didn‘t want to stuff it up!” she cries, holding her cheeks in mock-horror. “[Paul]‘s recorded it, but it isn‘t on any of his albums,” says Vika. “Yet,” adds Linda. “Yet,” agrees Vika. “We tried it as a duet,” Linda says, “but we just had to pull it out of the little box it was in. And I said, ‘Vik, let it rip.‘” PLEASING PAUL

L-R: Linda, Paul Kelly andVika in 2014, for Kelly's album The Merri Soul Sessions

and lapsteel guitar until it gives way into this shining, poignant chorus that flings a lump into your throat. This one, Vika says, required some planning when it came to the harmonies. ”Yeah, you nearly pulled your hair out with that one, didn‘t you Vik!” laughs Linda. ”Yeah, I did,” Vika admits with a sage nod. ”I have far less patience than Linda; I‘m like, ‘It‘s good enough, let‘s move on.‘ Cameron [Bruce] and Steve [Schram] were like, ‘Really? Really? ‘” Vika mimics, hands on hips. ”That‘s where a good producer comes in,” she continues. ”That‘s the blessing of a good producer, which Cameron and Steve are. They‘ll look for other ways to do

something, find the best possible way. And Cameron‘s an incredible musician.” Vika goes on to say that they have worked with producers in the past who weren't as committed to pushing songs to the best places they needed to be. Linda adds: "It was because they prioritised the band, not the vocals. That's why we chose these two guys, who we knew would be dedicated. [Otherwise], you're doing the songs a disservice."

Continue reading the full interview online at stack.com.au

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