Menzies, the four-piece band from Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington, New Zealand, have delivered us a gem with their single, “Hugh & Julia” a track from their EP Spaghetti Land. This song is true a testament to the band’s ability to create music that balances humour and earnestness in equal measure. The song ruminates on the love story of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts in the 1999 classic film Notting Hill, juxtaposed with the watcher’s bleak winter living circumstances. The lyrics are candid and sharp, coupled with lead singer Chris Brown’s unique and arresting vocal delivery they have a way of grabbing attention and holding it – “it cost me twenty bucks you see, to buy my favourite DVD, don’t judge me, it was Notting Hill.” The verse flows effortlessly into a huge crowd-pleasing ballad-esque chorus that I’ve been singing all week “they showed us how to find love in the face of adversity”, coupled by a glorious warming guitar solo by lead guitarist Miles Sutton.
Menzies are known for their powerful live performances, and that same energy and emotion are clear in this track. There’s an honesty to “Hugh & Julia” that is genuine and relatable, and this is part of the wonderful charm of the band. Menzies seem to be drawing love and attention from all over the place and I can see why. They’re a band to watch, and I can’t wait to hear more from them.
