Album Review: Bento - Diamond Days

The highly-anticipated release from Silverchair drummer Ben Gillies aka Bento is here in the shape of Diamond Days. Let's just set one thing straight before we get into it, to the die-hard fanatics of the iconic Aussie trio, don't expect to hear a Silverchair record.

Bento's debut is a mix of folk and melodic rock that could possibly be the soundtrack for the upcoming Aussie summer. The title track is a ripper and has already garnered plenty of airplay, but the rest of the album is just as good. Words Of Love is a sincere guitar ballad, while the funky West Side Story has a slight Tim Rogers feel to it.

Glue opens with a '70s psychedelic rock feel and Gillies' vocals get real gritty – and will surprise listeners. It's raw and unpolished but perfectly rock'n'roll. He completely switches the tempo of the album on How Many Times, which is a highlight. The piano takes it into borderline dance territory but strips back to get you straight into a funky rock riff. Wheels Turn is another standout – you could certainly be hearing it on radio sometime soon. It's a cool rock love anthem and the strain in Gillies' voice totally complements the lyrics.

The comparisons with this muso's beloved 'Chair will be inevitable, but don't laugh Bento off as a temporary side project. This is some really cool stuff from a guy who knows his craft, has fun with it and isn't afraid to experiment.