One of Australia's most quietly adored bands, Youth Group, stand ready to roar with Skeleton Jar.
Youth Group are at the forefront of an exciting new era in Australian alternative music. Singer/guitarist/songwriter Toby Martin formed the group with drummer Danny Allen in Sydney, Australia and despite several line-up changes since, these two remain at the band's core. After quickly gaining a strong live following the band signed to local independent label Ivy League Records (the same people who manage the Vines and Jet) and released their debut album in May 2001.
Skeleton Jar is the band's second album and the first to be released in the U.S. Martin's multiple talents shine through on this album like a beacon. Eccentric, yet highly emotive lyrics navigate their way across varied landscapes of pop, folk, and indie rock terrain with his uniquely pure voice. From the haunting singles "Skeleton Jar" and "Shadowland" to live favorites "See-Saw" and 'Piece Of Wood," Youth Group present an eclectic feast, with a darker and less poppy approach.
The beauty of this album is that every note is well-placed, every strum thought through, each song economic in the precision of its subdued anger. The songs give the listener no chance to get lost and no chance to escape their tales and tunes. It all starts with a drumbeat, a jangly Byrds-like guitar wrangle, and then Martin comes over, "Lost in this purgatory." And finally the full engine roar comes in for the chorus, "Shadowland," the song's title, repeats over and over, with only a sliver of hope: "I want to float upon my memories, not sink into the gloaming sea."
Youth Group are as compelling to see live as their songs sound on tape. They have toured extensively throughout Australia both under their own steam and as supports for international artists including Elliot Smith, the Strokes, Joe Pernice, the Stands, Clem Snide, and Luna.
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