East (Remastered)

iTunes Review

Cold Chisel delivered their first bona fide classic album with East. Produced by Mark Opitz, it was a confident, fully realised work of tremendous scope, and a milestone in Australian rock music history. The album offered a batch of memorable songs that were accessible and self-assured without compromising the rawness of their roots. Among its prime delights were the three iconic hit singles: the enchanting “Choirgirl,” the ubiquitous “Cheap Wine,” and the gently rolling “My Baby.” East marked a first for the group, with all members contributing songs. Guitarist Ian Moss shone with the slow-burning “Never Before” as well as singing on two other tracks: bassist Phil Small’s “My Baby” and drummer Steve Prestwich’s “Best Kept Lies.” Singer Jimmy Barnes stormed in with all guns blazing on the rockabilly riot “Rising Sun” and the rousing closer “My Turn to Cry.” Keyboardist Don Walker wasn’t to be outdone — as well as “Choirgirl” and “Cheap Wine,” he delivered the customary barnstorming opening track in “Standing on the Outside,” the delightful “Ita”, the smouldering “Star Hotel,” and the world-weary resignation of prison saga “Four Walls”.