Paul Kelly – Presents The Merri Soul Sessions

Presents The Merri Soul Sessions, released in 2014, is Paul Kelly’s collaborative project that brings together a stellar cast of Australian vocalists to reinterpret his songs with a soulful twist. Backed by the tight grooves of Clairy Browne, Vika and Linda Bull, Dan Sultan, and Kira Puru, the album explores gospel, funk, and rhythm and blues textures in a way that feels both fresh and timeless. Tracks like Smells Like Rain, Sweet Guy, and What You Want are transformed into rich, powerful performances that highlight the versatility of Kelly’s songwriting.

The project thrives on collaboration—each guest singer adds their own personality and depth, while Kelly guides the sessions with understated presence. The result is a celebratory and vibrant collection that reframes his catalog in new light, proving the adaptability and enduring strength of his work. The Merri Soul Sessions stands as a testament to Kelly’s generosity as an artist and his ability to create music that resonates across genres and generations.