Album Review: Lonely the Brave - 'Things Will Matter (Redux)'
After an insanely busy 2016, Cambridge outfit Lonely The Brave have had an extremely quiet few months. It’s no surprise though, with the atmospheric quintet having their 2016 LP Things Will Matter hit number 1 in the rock charts, as well as enduring a jam-packed touring cycle.
Much like their debut LP, The Day’s War, Things Will Matter has been followed up by a selection of singles offered as a redux state. However, this release offers each single from the track as a reworked set. The result is utterly stunning; a seemingly stripped back, yet extremely powerful take on the 2016 release. The band have offered a totally reconceptualised energy, which still holds the sentimental value found in the previous LP.
The first single on offer is not, however, a single we’ve heard before. Self-titled opener Things Will Matter is an extremely personal outlet for frontman David Jakes, who discusses his relationship with his father. The single takes a melancholic stance, and is beautifully put together.
Beyond the first single, we are led back to older material. This release has not necessarily stripped back every aspect of each single, but rather reinvented it; added electronics and synths give their sound an extra atmospheric twist. This gentle approach gives Jakes every reason to showcase his extremely impressive vocal range, which certainly does not disappoint.
Black Mire introduces the redux effect, with electric and synth utilized profusely. The vocals sound as powerful as ever, whilst also conveying a complex range of intimate harmonies. This tender approach gives the release a breath of fresh air, expanding on the already impressive array of talent found on the album.
Personal favourite Rattlesnakes is piano led, and fully enforces the intimacy which is so vital to this release. The single releases a sense of nostalgia which cannot be found elsewhere. This is where Lonely The Brave stand apart from the competition; they provide extreme depth which engulfs their audience instantly. The outpour of emotion found here is unlike no other.
On the contrary, heavier singles are given a second life when haunting, yet beautiful vocals are introduced. Strange Like I, holds a hypnotically synthesized feel, whilst orchestral tones take over punchier singles such as Jaws Of Hell, adding a sinister approach to once calm single.
Each single holds enormous emotion, which ultimately leads back to their overwhelming passion for their music. The redux proves that Lonely The Brave are a band like no other, a band who can continuously push the boundaries of atmospheric rock. Their ability to reinvent an entire album is what pushes Lonely The Brave high above their peers, and showcases the sheer talent that these guys share.
Whether shredding through heavier hits, or haunting us with heartfelt vocals at their most vulnerable, this album proves that Lonely The Brave are undoubtedly one of the best UK rock bands around.
Review by Cait Briggs