An early Christmas present from ‘The Darker My Horizon’, as they have released this EP in time for the festive season. They say ‘Phoenix: Volume Two’ is an EP, but with six tracks on the CD, nearly all four minutes long, it’s more like a gift of a mini album. Those who know Paul Stead and the guys, will already appreciate how hard working and dedicated they are. Never resting on their laurels, of which there are plenty, they’re always either on a stage or in a studio !
Crisp piano notes and Paul’s robust vocals introduce ‘Music Man’. This track is a powerful and very spirited start for ‘Phoenix: Volume Two’. As it progresses the guitar of Mark Stephenson arrives, with some superior and resonant chords. He then launches an attack with lower notes slicing the melody, which contribute to make this a brilliant opener. ‘Rock N Roll Away’ plays next, with a few chugging moments and the title repeating as the chorus. A run of simplified guitar strings with the occasional screaming burst, alongside those catchy lyrics, create the perfect singalong for future audiences. Contrast and an increase in mellowness on ‘With Open Arms’. Paul holds all the aces, his voice carries with such a huge amount of feeling. Again the guitar briefly breaks in with a beautiful solo, before the delicate words reappear.
’Never Let You Go’ is more of a rip roaring rocker but having a steady pace. TDMH excel in being able to turn everything they produce into something worthwhile and this track merges all the parts into one mighty anthem. The same with ‘Carry On’ which has another dose of those resilient and breathtaking vocals. Paul Hamilton on bass and drummer Russell Barnett can be picked out here, supplying the high standard of rhythm that goes to make the sound of TDMH, pretty unmistakable. The last track on the CD is ‘Here I Go Again’ dedicated to the memory of the late Bernie Marsden, who co-wrote it with David Coverdale. Yes, this ‘Whitesnake’ song from the 1982 ’Saints And Sinners’ album, has been covered numerous times, however, this is an acoustic version and Paul sings from the heart. Difficult not to shed a tear, as the flowing warmth touches your inner self. You just have to hear it, the band give it such so much justice.
There you are then, a bundle of half a dozen tracks that sum up ‘The Darker My Horizon’ and their ample supply of talent. They manage to combine so many emotions in a matter of 25 minutes, leaving you fully appreciating every moment. This new EP is available on all digital platforms, however the CD is limited to 200 copies and at the last count over half had gone, remember it’s only the actual CD that has the bonus sixth track.
‘They manage to combine so many emotions in a matter of 25 minutes, leaving you fully appreciating every moment’.
Facebook – The Darker My Horizon
Purchase a copy from the band direct at https://darkerhorizonuk.bigcartel.com/ Which has a load of merchandise on offer.
Visit the bands social pages for updates and gig news, there’s one last UK date this year on Friday 15th December, where they are performing 2 sets at The London Stone in Staines. This is a FREE ENTRY event. Then in just a few months time they will be heading over to Belgium & The Netherlands.
Thurs 29th Feb Rock Club The Cave presents The Darker my Horizon (UK) in Amsterdam
Fri 1st March The Darker my Horizon at Ragnarok, Bree (Belgium)
Sat 2nd March THE DARKER MY HORIZON & FAR BEYOND LIVE at The Crossover Music Pub in Ghent
Sun 3rd March Café ‘t Groote Gat presents The Darker my Horizon (UK) in Oostburg
