The Mabels began as a folkie trio from Lismore and over the last few years have become a more significant pop band based in Melbourne. Original members Kim Parker, Warwick Lobb and Anthony Atkinson experimented with a couple of drummers before meeting David Kneale late in 1996.

Five months later the band released an E.P entitled Caravan Park Girlfriend produced by Michael Thomas from Weddings Parties Anything. The six-tracker was recorded in Mick's Back bungalow in the heat of the Australia day long weekend.The laid back feel of the recording process is reflected in the folk tinged, almost naive sound of the songs.

The roots and acoustic influence on the band is most noticeable on this recording with vocal harmonies also a feature. Since the release of the E.P the Mabels have been working away in Melbourne as well touring up the east coast with label mates The Simpletons and The Lucksmiths.

Almost 18 months after the release of Caravan Park Girlfriend the band delivered their debut long player entitled 'Scenes from a Midday Movie'. The album was recorded at Happy Valley studios in Melbourne with the assistance of Darren Hanlon (ex-Simpletons). It includes songs that have been in their live set for a while (Sitting in a Cyclone, 44 Reasons for Leaving, Seasoned Forgiver) as well newer tunes (Tennis Players Girlfriends and Everything's Different).

In addition, the smooth vocal tones of bass player Kim Parker are pushed to the fore for the sad country sound of 'Small Town Charity Queen'. Although the new album still tilts the hat at past influences it is probably more guitar based then the E.P with a more mature sound overall. Lyrically the usual personal stuff is covered from relationships both hurtful and helpful, as well as made up stuff thrown in about stale stages and tragic cases.

If you haven't heard The Mabels check out a live show, it's a good place to start. Since recording the album, Ryan James (ex-Simpletons) has joined the band.

Information from

• Australian Music Online

Record number

864

References

• http://www.mono.netmono.net

Updated

02 March 2003

To cite this page

http://nla.gov.au/nla.cs-ma-NAMO~864