With his static-dusted voice and predilection for early rock antiquity, M. Ward has always come across as one of his generation's more understated bards. Interpreting the ever-deepening subtleties of his catalog generally requires repeated listens, and such is the case with his ninth solo effort, the appropriately moody More Rain. Easing in with a minute-long rainstorm soundscape, he leads off with the dreamy acoustic gallop of "Pirate Dial," a genial folk-pop hymn perfectly suited for the patient rotations of a vinyl long-player. A stuttering guitar groove on the Neko Case-aided "Time Won't Wait" quickens the album's pulse, setting up the similarly paced lead single, "Confession," a classic Ward track replete with a rich vein of warm backing vocals and soaring trumpet solo.
Singularity,the stunning debut album from Rain featuring John Jowitt and Andy Edwards (ex IQ and Frost) is released on CD. The complete Rain line-up is: Rob Groucutt - Vocals, Keys, Guitar; Andy Edwards Drums; John Jowitt Vocals, Bass; Mirron Vocals, Guitar. John Jowitt: "It's been about ten years since I played with Andy, in both IQ and Frost - it's a really instinctual rhythm section. With Rain, Andy has had the chance to show what an all-round musician he is. Rob and Mirron are both amazing musicians, songwriters and singers, and it's just a great combination. I'm really pleased that our old friends at GEP have shown faith in the band - it's one of those albums that I would have bought if I'd not been on it. It's prog, Jim, but not as we know it."
Frozen Rain emerged from the visionary mind of Belgian songwriter Kurt Vereecke, a creative odyssey that would transcend borders and genres, leaving an indelible mark on the rock landscape. Through collaboration with iconic musical figures and an unyielding commitment to melodic excellence, the band has cemented its reputation as a beacon of artistry and innovation. Inaugurating the journey, Frozen Rain's debut album arrived in 2008, a platform that allowed Kurt to join forces with his personal idols, luminaries such as Tommy Denander (Radioactive), Steve Newman (Newman) and Daniel Flores (The Murder Of My Sweet). This collaboration of creative minds culminated in a captivating sonic tapestry that resonated worldwide, instantly earning its place in the annals of rock history.
Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to present the sophomore album, "Unity" from Swedish melodic rockers Arctic Rain on January 27, 2023. With new keyboardist Kaspar Dahlqvist and drummer Richard Tonyson in the fold, "Unity" sees Arctic Rain building upon and surpassing their musical goals they aimed for on their debut album, "The One". Bigger, bolder songs with a more rockin' edge, but still very much melodic rock, "Unity" will positively thrill fans of the band's debut and be a welcome introduction to new listeners.