Seven Sonnets & A Song

Released in 2016 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death, 'Seven Sonnets & A Song' represents a unique entry in Paul Kelly's extensive discography. While Kelly is primarily known as Australia's premier storyteller of the everyday, this project saw him applying his melodic sensibilities to pre-existing classical texts. The album was recorded with a focus on intimacy, featuring a mix of Kelly's signature folk-rock style and more expansive, piano-led ballads. A notable highlight is the inclusion of Vika Bull on 'My True Love Hath My Heart', which adds a powerful soul dimension to the record. Critically, the album was praised for its 'bold, easygoing vigor' and its ability to make 400-year-old poetry feel contemporary and accessible. It debuted at number 9 on the ARIA charts, confirming Kelly's enduring relevance even when departing from his usual narrative songwriting.