Fresh Music Friday: Chet Faker, Isabella Manfredi, Alex Lahey

Fresh Music Friday is back with some bangers as Callum Nathan and Alex Waters tackle new releases from the inimitable Chet Faker, the inspirational Isabella Manfredi, and the influential Alex Lahey.

It Could Be Nice – Chet Faker

Alex: A very mellow song that can be played on repeat, although it definitely does feel like a background song and lacks the same sense of build that makes so many of Chet Faker’s songs great. To be fair, I think anyone would have a difficult time topping ‘Talk is Cheap’. However, it’s still undoubtedly a very well-produced song and the vocals, as always, are incredible.

Callum: All I can say about it is that it’s trippy. I thought that 2022 was about releasing upbeat songs and it’s just not that. It’s personally something I would want to listen to in general and doesn’t really conjure up any vibes for me.

Only Child – Isabella Manfredi

Alex: I’m not sure why but this song gives me strong HAIM vibes. Maybe it’s the strong female vocals and harmonies that stand the test of the minimal instrumental backing, or maybe it’s the lyrical storytelling. Either way, this song is amazing and really showcases Manfredi’s talent. Also, I am in love with the click of the high heels being used as a beat.

Callum: I’ve heard this on KIIS and late-night Nova. Again. Very trippy but it seems to hit a note that makes it pass the test for commercial radio. I’d probably listen to it to sober up, but again not something I’d listen to for a general day-to-day track.

Congratulations – Alex Lahey

Alex: This song definitely fits well within Alex Lahey’s vibe. I have always been a fan of her songwriting style, and ‘congratulations’ is no different, with understated and direct lyrics that still pack an emotional punch. This song leans into the bitterness associated with an ex moving on, but the guitar hook prevents it from ever feeling too moody or sardonic.

Callum: We get it. You broke up with someone. But swearing is not going to get you anyway. Actually, that’s a side note, why do artists swear on tracks? It’s going to be edited when it gets played on the radio. Other than that. A triple J anthem if I ever heard it.