Vince Melouney Gets It Right

Vince Melouney has performed with a number of rock stars, dating back to the mid-1960s. But he’s probably best known for his guitar playing on early Bee Gees hits such as “New York Mining Disaster,” “To Love Somebody,” “Words,” “Holiday,” and “Massachusetts.” So it’s great to see him exploring his 1960s roots on the new digital single “Women (Make You Feel Alright).” Plus, Melouney had some expert help in recording and producing it.

The catchy, guitar-driven song was originally a hit for his fellow Australians The Easybeats back in the nascent garage rock days of 1966. The 2020 version recaptures that era via Melouney’s rough-hewn vocals and guitar playing, as well as the expert production by Shel Talmy (The Who, The Kinks, etc.). These 1960s vets are joined by drummer Clem Burke of Blondie and The Empty Hearts; and Jonathan Lea of The Jigsaw Seen and Dave Davies’ band. Bassist Alec Palao and backup vocalist Paul Kopf, both members of Strangers In A Strange Land and The Seeds, also helped out.

“Women (Make You Feel Alright),” and an instrumental take on the same song are available as a digital album from Burger Records on streaming services, including Bandcamp. The press release also mentions that Melouney will be featured in a documentary about The Bee Gees that’s going to be released released by Universal Music Group sometime this year.