New Dawn
What do you get if you mix soul, blues and melodic rock…? Stranded’s new album ‘New Dawn’ that’s what. ‘New Dawn’ will be Stranded’s second studio album, now I am not familiar with their back catalogue, but I will certainly be looking into them on strength of this album.
The majority of the tracks on ‘New Dawn’ were written by multi instrumentalist Lewis Nitikman along with many co-writers which he met along the way. One of these is the talented John Reilly (Boy on a dolphin) as well as Daryl Burgess and Corey Abrahms. Guitars and Backing Vocals are supplied by Ray Roper and additional guitars are played by Bill Buckingham, who also mixed the record. Vocals are provided by the very smooth Troy Reid.
The first song ‘Not Enough Sorry’ is a powerful lament. Lyrically Lewis’ pain and regret runs thick, ‘Theres just not enough sorry in the world’. Mid way through, a guitar solo comes in, equally melancholic, fitting the piece perfectly. This is a true blues song for the modern generation.
Moving through the album, ‘More than Words Can Say’ is a soul song that would fit perfectly in the late 60s or early 70s. Troy Reid’s voice fits this song perfectly. Vocally, he has so much soul, you would think he was one of the old soul boys, think Teddy Pendergrass and you’re in the right ball park.
My favourite song on the album is a hauntingly beautiful piece. ‘The Power of Love’, it is just Troy with a piano accompaniment. It’s such a simple song, but so effective. I can imagine seeing it live, a single spotlight on Troy and a spotlit piano…. In a live setting, this is the lighters in the air song.
What a great album, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked the stylistic crossover; it has so much soul and yet still holds tight onto the AOR, melodic rock feel. How have I never come across this wonderful band before? Truly masterful musicianship, I must explore their back catalogue! And you should too!!!
Released by Escape Music Ltd
Release Date: 19th July 2019
