I can't think of a better way to wake up this fine Wednesday morning than to the announcement of Last Leaves, a new band consisting of 3/4 of the Lucksmiths!!!

Although it's been a while since the {very sad} last Lucksmiths shows, my heart still has yet to mend.  I had hoped they'd soon realize that the world needs more Lucksmiths songs and get back to work. With Last Leaves, three Lucksmiths members — Marty Donald, Mark Monnone and Louis Richter — and Noah Symons of Great Earthquake fame, are picking up where The Lucksmiths' First Frost left off with sweet strumming diary entries that are soft and subtle as well as charged and captivating. As they describe it:

Busily writing and rehearsing in the Dandenong Ranges, the group has found their sound coming together effortlessly and unhurriedly: at once warm and dynamic, the at-times-complex rhythms woven together by intriguing guitar and bass melodies. And after a two year hiatus, Marty Donald's songwriting pen hasn't run dry of vibrant imagery and despondent wit.

If you're like me and have already started counting down to the nonexistent release date of Last Leaves material, the band has slipped a link to hear one of Marty's acoustic demos (below) and you can read his thoughts on the new band on the Lost and Lonesome website.

And, if you've saved your pennies and are able to head to Australia to cheer them on at Last Leaves' debut performances… please send us a postcard!:

In Melbourne
Thursday March 22 — Workers Club, Fitzroy with Laura Imbruglia and Matt Bailey

Saturday March 24 — Empress Hotel, North Fitzroy with The Zebras + guests

Sunday April 1 — Union Hotel, Brunswick with Anthony Atkinson & the Running Mates

Following these dates, Last Leaves will also be performing as  special guests to The Wedding Present at their Melbourne and Sydney shows:

Friday April 13 — Sydney — Annandale Hotel, also featuring Nic Dalton & His Gloomchasers

Saturday April 14 — Melbourne — Northcote Social Club, also featuring The Sand Pebbles (SOLD OUT)