Give singer/songwriter Hugh Wilson (http://www.hughwilson.org) credit for not sounding like his Australian peers. Although when he deepens his voice, like on "She's a Sun" and "I Still Want You," he somewhat resembles Iva Davies of Icehouse in their late '80s glory, Wilson's style owes little to his compatriots. Australia has a rich history of great pop, from the Easybeats to INXS, but outside of Ireland's pride and joy, U2, Wilson's influences seem very American.
The U2 inspiration is obvious on "Please Come Back Soon," which has an arena-sized chorus that would make Bono smile. "Please Come Back Soon" features Wilson's best vocals, soaring and passionate. You can really feel his emotions through your skin. "She's a Sun" is an immediate hit, an upbeat love song that sticks in the brain.
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As with most mainstream pop, this is not a record made with music critics in the mind. This is mass-appeal rock, and it takes an open mind, straying from the reviewer consensus that music has to be challenging or innovative to matter, to appreciate such simplicity. Lyrically and musically, Wilson is staying within his strengths, and much of that involves in appealing to the everyday radio listener. From that standpoint, he succeeds. "Steal A Heart" is just as moving as any Maroon 5 or Train track - and it doesn't ask or try for anything more. The grey-haired scribes will shake their heads, but the little girls will understand.
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