Rise

Island/Def Jam

Rise, the debut CD from Island recording artists, Rubyhorse, has been firmly lodged in my car stereo for the last week and a half.  Simply put, I am addicted. So what’s the problem you ask? You might want to direct that query to my editor. You see, I have five other CD reviews that are way over due, but I can’t seem to tear myself away from this particular album. A luminous collection of 11 bittersweet pop-rock gems, Rise showcases the kind of songwriting that has the ability to move the masses, transcend musical trends and inspire legends. If I sound like I’m gushing, I am. These guys are the real thing.

The Irish quintet that features Dave on vocals, Joe on guitar, Decky on bass, Gordon on drums and Owen on keyboards is at once a reflection of their musical influences (the Beatles, U2 and Radiohead, among others), and a band whose musical chops and mature, introspective lyrics form a musical identity and collective artistic voice that is highly original.

Dave’s rich, thick voice is as rock and roll as they come: an ultra-powerful whiskey-stained baritone that complements the band’s lush, guitar riddled sound beautifully. A less experienced singer might have trouble controlling such an impressive instrument but Dave’s temperate, masterful phrasing and instinctive use of dynamics demonstrates a healthy respect for melody and lyrical content. Joe’s guitar work on songs like “Into the Lavender” and the band’s first single, “Sparkle” is tasteful and inspired without sounding contrived. Kudos to producer Jay Joyce for capturing the band’s astounding live energy in each and every track while at the same time creating a veritable aural smorgasbord of effects and symphonic instrumentation for the listener to feast upon. Of course, this kind of ambitious production would have easily buried the music if it weren’t for the strength of the songs themselves. Decky’s world-worn lyrics are wise and soaked with hope, while his keen ear for hook-free melodies provides a rock-solid foundation for this talented band. My favorite tracks include the heart-wrenching ballad “Any Day Now” and the sensual “Teenage Distraction.” Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Beatle-esque “Punchdrunk” which features none other than the late George Harrison on guitar!

Not since the early 1990’s has the music world witnessed the emergence of such a stellar talent as this. Perhaps Rubyhorse will even inspire a much needed one-band revolution. After all, in the Chinese Zodiac, 2002 is known as the Year of the Horse.

-Mindy Pye