We've got a saying at GRTR! - 'no guitar, no good!'

And The Cat Empire - one of Australia's favourite live acts have one of the most unusual line-ups you're likely to encounter this side of the equator - Felix Riebl (vocals), Harry Angus (vocals and trumpet), Ollie McGill (keys), Ryan Munro (bass) and Will Hull-Brown and Jamshid Khadiwala aka Jumps on decks. Plus there's a shed load of additional brass contribution in the form of trombones and saxes.

Cinema is The Cat Empire's 4th album and 'down under' they've shifted over half a million sales, in the process notching up 4 multi platinum albums. And with a solid r&b base overlaid with threads of reggae and ska it's a remarkably infectious and pop[ular] long player. It's very easy to see why 'back home' the band should be considered the perfect accompaniment for BBQs, road trips and parties.

There's no denying the 'feel good factor' and with a UK tour imminent (and surely a Later slot?) we may have to review that old GRTR! saying. Even if it's going to be unquestionably difficult to 'assume the position' in the absence of a six string. I guess we'll just have settle for throwing another prawn on the barbie and breaking out another crate of Fosters.

***½

Review by Pete Whalley