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Review: The Bamboos ft. Daniel Merriweather - I Never [Single]

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Review: The Bamboos ft. Daniel Merriweather - I Never [Single]

Tru Thoughts // "The track is vocally saved with the gorgeous harmonies..."

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Last Edited by: Chris MUG5 Maguire October 26th, 2012.

I'm gonna make a guess that not nearly enough of you are aware of The Bamboos. You should be. Formed 11 years ago, the Australian ensemble are producing some serious soul-infused pop songs that lift you up and make you move. Band leader Lance Ferguson (AKA Lanu) creates feel-good, multi-layered tracks featuring some sweatly infectious melodies and many guest vocalists, which in the past have included often-time band member Kylie Auldist, Megan Washington and TY.

WATCH // 'On The Sly'


The Bamboos recently released their 5th studio album, Medicine Man, and 'I Never' is the second single to be taken from it.

Now I'm sure you're all familiar with the name Daniel Merriweather after he featured on Mark Ronson's 2007 album Version with the track 'Stop Me', sang with Wiley on his 2008 track 'Cash In My Pocket', and then released is own album Love and War in 2009. Whilst he had a good success with Love and War, in particular the lead track 'Red' he has somewhat disappeared since then. Until now, collaborating with fellow Melbournians The Bamboos on 'I Never'. Now, I'll be honest, I never (pardon the pun, I'll get my coat) was a big fan of Merriweather, whilst I think his voice is strong he doesn't really do much for me, his songs were just a bit wishy washy and sadly, I feel they let 'I Never' down too.

WATCH // 'Red'


Musically and lyrically, I think it's a great track, signature sounds from The Bamboos, which they've refined over the years. I just feel it's with the vocals where this track falls short, in particular the verse's; I find myself a little bored by Merriweather's voice and I'm easily distracted. However, the track is vocally saved with the gorgeous harmonies in the chorus and the interesting break towards the end, where Daniel Merriweather showcases his vocal range.

WATCH // 'I Never'


Also featured on this release are two remixes of 'I Never', by Lanu and South Seas. Sadly neither of them add anything to the track, as they still focus on Merriweather's vocals. There is also a live version of 'Medicine Man' featuring Ella Thompson, yet another featured vocalist on the Medicine Man album. Recorded at one of The Bamboos biggest ever gigs on their recent Australian headline tour; it's a great track and a nice treat to hear the live version. Having caught The Bamboos a couple of years back in London, I can certainly tell you that their live shows really leave you wanting more, full of energy and life, they'll have you on your feet the whole night!

WATCH // 'What I Know' (Live)


If you're in Australia you can catch them at various festivals in November, December and January. As for us in the UK, we'll sit tight and wait for them to head over this way again soon!

Tour Dates
  • Thursday 15th November, AWME Conference opening night at The HiFi MELBOURNE (VIC)
  • Saturday December 8th, SYDNEY HOMEBAKE Music, Film, Comedy & Arts Festival 2012 - The Global Edition at The Domain, Royal Botanic Garden SYDNEY (NSW)
  • Friday 28th December, Falls Festival (Boogie Nights Launch Party) LORNE (VIC)
  • Sunday 30th December, Falls Festival LORNE (VIC)
  • Monday 31st December, Fall Festival MARION BAY (TAS)
  • Saturday January 12th 2013, Trevor: A Musical Festival CHURCHILL ISLAND (VIC)

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