Written by: Don Walker
Released: 1979
US Charts: N/A
UK Charts: N/A
Other Charts: #2 (Australia)
Most of you have probably not heard of Cold Chisel, the legendary Australian pub rock group from the 70s and 80s. Which is why I wasn’t sure whether I should feature one of their tracks here. The reason why they never had significant success outside Australia is one of the mysteries I’m still trying to solve. The band had the talent, the voices, the sound and the songs to make it big. But they didn’t for some reason. I invite you to listen to this song “Choir Girl” as well as some of their other (not so) well-known songs and you will agree that this group should have been more successful.
The late 70s and early 80s were a golden period for Australian rock both domestically and internationally. While AC/DC became one of the biggest rock bands on the planet during this period, other groups such as Dragon and Cold Chisel got very little recognition in other countries. As I said before, it remains a mystery as to why this is the case. Nevertheless, I shouldn’t probably dwell on this mystery and should just appreciate their music for what it is.
Lyrics-wise, this song deals with the subject of a young woman who has just had an abortion. The lyrics deals with the pain and suffering of the young woman who is crying out for assistance from anyone to help her deal with her distressing situation. Lead singer Jimmy Barnes’ powerful voice emphasises and makes us aware of this pain, and this allows us to also feel the young woman’s suffering throughout the song. The rhythm and melody is also very nice and easy to follow making it a very memorable.
However for me, the highlight of the song has got to be the piano at the beginning of the song. I remember the first time I heard this song on the radio, the beautiful sound and tune of the piano convinced me that this was a great song. It’s simply one of the most beautiful piano compositions I’ve ever heard in my life. If you listen to it, you will know what I mean.
I hope you all enjoy this great Australian classic song.
Lyrics can be accessed here.
Chords can be accessed here.
Feel free to comment on this song and/or my review below.
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