Love and War, the debut by new comer Daniel Merriweather, proves that good wholesome music is still being created. The Australian singer/songwriter's album is an original blend of 60's melodies, strings and electric guitar. Merriweather has a soulful voice that sets him aside from most and is a breath of fresh air to what has become a stale time for music.

Mark Ronson solely handled the production and Merriweather wrote most of the songs on the album. They have proven their chemistry is undeniable with Merriweather's appearance on "Stop Me", the hot single from Ronson's Version album. Love & War is a solid album with a retro vibe that flows quite nicely and Ronson did not spare his Motown sound influence. Nor did Merriweather shy away from his influences [Stevie Wonder, Jeff Buckely, D'Angelo and Otis Redding] mimicking their style of sharing stories through song.

Merriweather's distinctive voice grabs you from the first track "For Your Money" a song about his relationship with his current residence New York. The song is strong and prepares you for the rest of the album. The first single sees Merriweather collaborating with up and coming hip hop artist Wale on "Change". The song has an uptempo beat and Wale is a nice addition as his flow is smooth enough to compliment Merriweather's vocals.

Additional highlights on the album include the second single "Red" along with "Chainsaw" and "Cigarettes". Each of these tracks tells a story about love and the ups and downs of relationships. Adele accompanies Merriweather on "Water and a Flame". While her voice is a little overpowering the ballad is hot and Merriweather is not outshined. "Could You" (my favorite) definitely has a late 60's feel... but it works. Its a nice love song in which he sings

"Could you be my sunshine on a cloudy day, could you be my yellow when the skies are grey."

SonicAmp Rating: 8/10