Peter Senior - On The Edge (Mandalong Records)

Peter Senior is a singer-songwriter from Sydney, Australia, and he has just recently released his debut album, On The Edge. The record explores a wide range of styles from Motown to country, but it seems to be that his core influences are Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen. Personally, it’s good to see musicians now willing to admit the importance of both of these artists, and Senior injects a smooth dose of soul into this heartland rock style. His voice doesn’t contain as much grit as Springsteen’s, but he more than makes up for it with an infectious amount of energy and conviction.

Key to the sound of this album is that it was recorded live in the studio, and consequently there’s a real feeling of fun and looseness to the songs. From the lush, syrupy horn section and rich background vocals of “Little Lovin’” to the smooth, laid back vibes of “Cool Ride,” the one thing shared by every song is the celebratory spirit of a group of musicians who take pleasure in finding the joyful possibilities of soul. It’s not the deepest of music, but there’s a real artistry to Senior’s definition of fun and you’ll be too busy dancing to think of anything else anyway.