- Harley Young has been making music in Brisbane for several years now. If not already recognized by many Brisbane musicians as quite the songwriter, he has definitely stood out as one of the Brisbane music scene’s most ardent supporters and for most, whenever Harley’s name has been mentioned, talk has inevitably turned to the suburb of Sandgate. For as long as anyone would have known of Harley, there has always been discussion of a concept album based around Harley’s love of the suburb. Even after being whisked away to Montreal for a period, he didn't welch on his promise.
Flinders Parade is in fact Harley’s debut album, and for this he’s teamed up with his backing band The Haymakers, comprised of members of the local band Go Go Fish. It’s a perfect combination, as the Haymakers complement Harley’s songwriting with their melodic punch and subtle instrumentation. Actually, this record feels like a document, kind of like feeling in the dark, of everyone discovering each other musically. It’s one of the many charms of Flinders Parade.
What really comes through though, is a sense of place. It almost goes without saying really, but it has to be noted, Harley writes what he knows. For this he’s taken inspiration from masters such as Jonathan Richman and Bruce Springsteen. One can feel it in certain passages: the small town drama built up, the re-imagining of the suburb as the real destination, the sweet pathos, loyalty. One may even want to take a drive out to Sandgate to see what all the fuss is about.
There are a number of songs on Flinders Parade one can see Harley playing for years to come. Balls Deep in Boondall is not only great to say out loud it’s also a cracking tune. When Harley sings of doing “burnouts in the BEC” it tugs at the heartstrings to such an extent that one can even imagine the statue of Leroy Loggins shedding a tear in remembrance of those glory days of yesteryear. Similarly, on Calling In The Dogs, Harley’s voice soars with emotion. “What gives you the right to be calling in the dogs on me tonight”, one of the better choruses you will hear anywhere. Sticks and Bricks too, is a great little pop tune cemented near the end of the album.
This definitely feels like a starting point. There’s a mixture of Harley playing solo, with minimal accompaniment, up against rockier numbers throughout. Just where Harley takes us next is anyone’s guess- perhaps an album on ukulele, perhaps a big band workout? Whatever the direction, whatever the location, there’s always the Haymakers, and of course, there’s always Sandgate.

- Ian Powne.