Caroline Easther ’s debut solo album has been a decade in the making, recorded between other musical projects.

The album is ‘Lucky,’ a possible reflection of her attitude, with songs projecting positivity among the personal stories she tells. Easther has been making music since 1980, as the drummer (and vocalist) for bands and collectives including Let’s Planet, The Verlaines, The Chills, and Beat Rhythm Fashion.

‘Lucky’ (recorded with ex-Muttonbird Dave Long) is different to her earlier work, but is an evolution of her songwriting style, combining folk, country-pop and a touch of alt-rock to her underlying singer-songwriter appeal.

However, apart from a traditional country duet with Barry Saunders on a cover of I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry, there’s no one particular style she sticks too, rather stamping her own mark on the material.

‘Lucky’ is understated, but with songs that make a mark, and Meg’s Song is one of these, possessing a persistent hook in the chorus that draws you back to the story she’s telling. Jaguar Boy swings nicely along on a shuffle, while Anything For You and Your Footsteps Falling up the rhythm and pace of ‘Lucky’ – Anything For You having a familiar jangle-pop sound that brings to mind her earlier bands.

In an album of refined performances, Easther’s voice is an interesting instrument – melodic and mature, bringing gravitas to her songs, and ‘Lucky’ is a fine, elegant record with classy performances. While it takes a few listens to truly get to the heart of these songs, the payoff is rewarding.