r
gg
June 2017 - p.13
Verdict:
Either an album of pure genius or
recorded madness. Hereford band 7Shades
originally formed in 2013 to pay tribute to the
music of Tim Smith and Cardiacs by playing
music that aims to capture some of their unique
and much-missed spirit. Berserk short opener
'Milky Train' is I imagine what a jam between
Pink Floyd and Caracas would sound like;
followed by the addictive psychedelic and catchy
'Marking Time'. Their incredible massive sound
is an artistic mix of pop, prog. punk and all
coated in a layer of what I call advanced extreme
psychedelia. Highlights are the epic battle of a
tune 'Grasping At Straws', the technical stamp of
'Gout', the ideological 'This Is Not A Song' and
the manic energy of 'Tease'. Bursting ends with
'Perfect Storm' which although is a touching and
beautiful piece of music; can't resist occasionally
transcending into sinister eerie and unnerving
overtones but what an ending to a brilliant
album. This really is an experience like no other
and I totally insist you hear it for yourself.
Album:
Bursting
www
shades me uk
Verdict:
“There's magic in the air tonight my
friends” is the closing line of the song 'Rainbow
Child' and musically I think that line best sums
up this album by four piece Cheshire folk rock
band Venus Rising fronted by singer songwriter
Sheena Bratt. 'Happy Daze' is filled with
remarkably positive songs performed with
attitude, many of which suggesting ways in
which to make the planet a better place.
Highlights are 'Unity' which is a wake up call for
many; lyrically among the songs many solutions
is “consumerism replaced by compassion”.
'Synchronicity' is a blues rock stomp with a real
strong hook chorus which I thought was terrific.
'Woodlight' has gotta be the most peaceful song
I've heard in some time. Album closer 'Waterfall'
is arguably the darker and more sinister
sounding of the tunes here and works
beautifully. As a whole this is a protest album
done with care without the grey politics, tracks
like 'RBE' which stands for Resource Based
Economy offers a clear vision of hope for the
human race. Recommended for fans of Joni
Mitchell.
Album:
HappyDaze
www
venusrising uk
VENUS RISING
Continues overleaf...
7SHADES
album
month
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