Americana in a reasonably gentle set of colours here (despite the subject matter), as Josef McManus’ White Owl Red sets out its stall with a careful political agenda: ‘Just tryin’ to make things a little better’. A rolling and tuneful backing track lends authentic support to the softly-sung thoughts about the undisputed horrors caused by … Continued
San Francisco--California--USA
Each song creates a gentle and satisfyingly human take on Roensch’s subject matter, which is ruminative and delicate and a little bit trippy. It’s distinct and idiosyncratic and I dig it for that.
In terms of genre, New Realms (that title is probably a clue!) is borrowing from all over the place. As well as the influences I’ve already mentioned, there is something of Ulrich Schnauss-era Engineers about the overall effect of the EP. It’s rich, imaginative, compelling and intriguing. It’s hard to imagine higher praise than this.
In a world full of regurgitated instrumentals and ideas designed to keep things on the level, White Owl Red are here to offer authenticity and an undeniably human approach to artistry.
That project title echoes in your mind as you make your way through the songs. Even with the musical positivity and bounce, you’re constantly drawn back to the thought of All I Do Is Bleed.
“All the Woodstocks – The time before the internet. It was a clusterfuck logistically, yet memorable on so many levels with soooo many legendary artists. Music is a positive force and energy – a therapy that satisfies the soul.”
There’s depth & intention to the song – as was the way with punk-rock back during the dawn of the genre; the songs were there to rebel against societal ‘normality’. Conscious lyrics were reinforced by emotional & striking performances that were clearly connected to the words at hand. That’s precisely what you get here. FUCK THIS NOISE is an absolute anthem.
Genre and stylistic labels aside for a moment, Jonni Lost drive with superb songwriting on this EP – Hang On is an immediately likable song that quickly grows to be an addictive and rather unforgettable track; with timeless qualities.
By the latter half, the beat hits and the guitars take over – an atmospheric, organic ambiance rains down around you. It feels mellow yet also uplifting, as if you’re sitting peacefully on-board a fast train; the world speeding by just outside.
Twelve tracks & not a single moment is filler or worth skipping over – far from it. I could listen to this three times in the day & not tire of it. It’s been a while since that was the case.
This album works well to hold the mood so you can drive or escape to it on any given day. At the same time, Soul offers that personal touch, that authenticity that lets you feel less alone as his songs reach out to you.
The song appeals for its alternative nature & yet satisfies in the way that any great EDM or pop hit needs to. A winning combination.