Released By: Napalm Records
Release Date: October 28, 2016
Genre: Hard Rock
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/theanswerrock/
Line Up:
Cormac Neeson – Vocals,
Paul Mahon – Guitar,
Michael Waters – Bass,
James Heatley – Drums,
Tracklist:
1.Solas
2.Beautiful World
3.Battle Cry
4.Untrue Colour
5.In This Land
6.Thief Of Light
7.Being Begotten
8.Left Me Standing
9.Demon Driven Man
10.Real Life Dreamers
11.Tunnel
The Answer release their new album, “Solas”, on October 28 via Napalm. The CD was produced by Andy Bradfield and Avril Mackintosh, who previously worked with the band on their album “Rise” (2006). “Solas”, which is the Gaelic word for “light,” is also the title of the lead track on this beautiful album that reminds me a little of Depeche Mode.
After their 2015 U.S. “Raise A Little Hell” tour, the band return strengthened with “Solas” which looks back to their culture and deep Irish roots.
Ten years, five albums and thousands of shows later the band is back with a new work that’s so light yet, very positive and powerful. It’s the typical record you should listen to put you in the most positive of moods.
The album starts with the dark hypnotic drum beat of the opening title track “Solas”, a rock anthem that builds to a climactic release with an explosive and almost operatic choral finale. “Beautiful World” follows and that’s almost a classic 70’s retro progressive rock. This song was co-written with Neil Davidge ( Massive Attack producer / composer). “Thief Of Light” has a beautiful sound with a Celtic choral background. The Celtic tinged and inspired vocal arrangement from bassist Micky Waters’ love of Irish harmony, ingrained from a young age by his four older sisters who sang in an Irish folk choir.
The other most beautiful songs on this album, in my opinion are “In This Land’ that utilise the more traditional Irish arrangements of mandolin and acoustic guitars and “Being Begotten” with its mysterious atmospheric feel.
“Solas” is an conscientious and trusty album. It’s dark, and joyous at the same time. It is a record that bears the scars and soul of four talented men from Northern Ireland; sometimes troubled but seeking creative liberation.
“Solas” is available on
CD, the 11 track album on jewel case CD.
CD exclusive Limited Edition PledgeMusic exclusive version of Solas, featuring 14 tracks “In This Land” (Acoustic version), “Light In Darkness” (Demo Version) and “Money” (Pink Floyd Cover Version) and 6 page digipak.
Double Vinyl &
The 11 track album on jewel case Cd + the label Solas T shirt.
Reviewer: Valeria Campagnale
Rating: 9/10