Husky

Husky are the first Australian band to be signed to Sub Pop, and it isn't hard to see why. After all, their gentle, folky music fits nicely with the likes of Father John Misty and Beechwood Sparks, even if it lacks a little of the personality of their labelmates. Forever So sounds like a debut album ― it has an earnestness that can be overwhelming, especially when it's very close to overstaying its welcome, thanks to the overgenerous running time. Like most young acts, Husky (named after songwriter Husky Gawenda) are eager to share everything they've done to date and the record drags during its second act. The good moments are really good though. "History's Door" (which also won them a contest to find the best unsigned band in Australia), with its galloping beat, is the closest they get to up-tempo, while the closing pair of acoustic tracks, "Don't Tell Your Mother" and "Farewell (In 3 Parts)," are downright moving. Perhaps Sub Pop is thinking long-term, because Husky definitely haven't peaked on their debut. There's potential, but they need to find exactly what's lacking, and that isn't clear yet.