It's quite disconcerting when two acts you don't particularly like join forces to deliver a song you really love - but that's exactly what Paul Mac and Bertie Blackman have accomplished with "The Only One". The unlikely duo were brought together to record a song for the recently released children's film "Hey, Hey It's Esther Blueburger" and the result is a startling delight. The name Paul Mac brings to mind commercial dance music and dodgy collaborations with Silverchair, while indie darling Bertie Blackman is best known for edgy rock anthems like "Fast Bitch". The last thing I expected from them was a catchy pop tune with a sing-along chorus! Don't let the cover art put you off. "The Only One" might appear in a kid's movie but this is highly sophisticated pop music. It's rare to hear horns, piano, handclaps and a children's choir in a three minute pop song (without wanting to vomit)! The lyrics are also surprisingly adult. You don't need to be a teenager to identify with the song's theme of alienation. Imagine Aimee Mann on anti-depressants and you get some idea of where "The Only One" is coming from.
Indie icon Bertie Blackman
The video clip (below) is quite a spectacular affair. Bertie looks hot in her school uniform and it's a nice touch to have her interact with characters from the film. I particularly love the paper and chalk animated figures. Check out the Behind The Scenes footage to learn more about the song. I really hope Bertie explores a more pop orientated sound in the future. I've always admired her voice and attitude but it's great to finally enjoy some of her music. You can download "The Only One" from Australian iTunes or purchase the "Hey, Hey It's Esther Blueburger" soundtrack from Chaos. To the best of my knowledge there are no plans for a physical single but that could change if "The Only One" keeps climbing the iTunes top 100.
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