Yves Klein Blue's Ragged and Ecstatic album

Yves Klein Blue’s debut album Ragged and Ecstatic plays fantasy to a captivating blend of piano rock, pop punk and indie folk – a mix that has been vacant from the Australian music scene for far too long.

This is no doubt a dramatic improvement from their Draw Attention to Themselves EP. The feel of the record reflects its title as the joyfully tattered melodies play reminder to UK acts such as Keane and The Rumble Strips.

Mischievous front-man Michael Tomlinson provides a wildcard for the group. Whilst his complete vocal range is not tested for the greater part of the LP, Tomlinson’s raw crooning blends effortlessly with entertaining and often insightful lyrics.

Inspired by playing witness to the post-pill-pop puking times of younger years, the single “Polka” is inevitably a highlight and drawcard for new fans. Exceptionally catchy, the simplicity underscoring the track provides the foundation for a soon-to-be indie cult classic.

The more secular “Getting Wise” was a – dare we say it – wise choice for second single release and should achieve commercial success if given appropriate air time. With such superb wordplay, critical acclaim should be bound to follow: “But if you would desire in all things to be wise you’ll be none the wiser if you ever get there/The truth of your idols is most of them died before anybody saw.”

In scrutinising the travesties of a modern world, “About the Future” is another standout on the album: “What this generation needs is a score/Because we realise we can all get along but no one is willing to drop their arms.”

The penultimate track “Gin Sling”, a personal favourite, beautifully crafts a tale of addiction, laced with a gentle blues partnership of keys and strings.

Other tracks, most notably “Summer Sheets” and “Dinosaur”, are too dance-worthy for private listening and would certainly be appreciated more on the live circuit. While Yves Klein Blue have made a name for themselves as energetic live performers, the transition to recording artist has been seamless, containing all that energy and flair in a solid 43 minute record.

Ragged and Ecstatic exudes creativity and innovation, representing a niche in an otherwise overcrowded and underwhelming market.

Yves Klein Blue’s upcoming tour with Philadelphia Grand Jury will only further encourage audiences to take a chance on the Brisbane-born troupe. This could be big, people.

Yves Klein Blue will be playing two shows at Sydney ’s Oxford Art Factory this Saturday 4th July as part of their nationwide Ragged and Ecstatic tour.