Barricades Rise! An acoustic duo, comprising of UK midlanders Jonathan Coates and Michael McEntee, who have self-recorded and self-produced two albums so far; the second of which (‘All I Have Is Here’) I listened to for free on their website. They describe themselves as playing acoustic-folk-rock akin to the likes of Mumford & Sons and Turin Brakes. I’ve got to say this style has never been something that has massively appealed to me, personally preferring the older generation of acoustic folk; the likes of Pentangle, Nick Drake and even Simon & Garfunkel. So you might say I didn’t have great expectations, of course i’d like to think i’ve retained an open mind...fingers crossed!
On first listen you’re presented with a catchy, pop-folk sound that encompasses sing-along choruses and for the most part reasonably simple guitar strumming; the music being very much led by the vocals of Jonathan. There’s no doubt that Coates has a powerful voice, and his cry of ‘Tonight I feel invincible, tonight I have it all’, in the album opener ‘Animals’, would seem to reflect his confidence as a front man. The production is very strong and there’s no doubt that the songs certainly all possess a melodic charm that gets your foot tapping. My major criticism would be that they tend to become formulaic and somewhat samey throughout the album; with a lack of the sufficient musical variation required in an L.P. ‘Great White North’ and ‘Folk Songs and Jazz Bands’ stood out for me, indicating a change in style and an enjoyable use of the banjo and some complimentary whistling.
Barricades Rise review themselves on their website with these words: ‘Jonathan's voice rips through each track with a force that is rarely heard from other vocalists and put together with Michael's creative guitar style, they truly have crafted a unique yet accessible sound.’ I’m not sure how far I agree with this; my overall impression being mixed. At times enticing and moving, the momentum fails to keep up and after a minute or two as the songs, in particular the vocals, tend to become grating. Perhaps one could be forgiven for being hindered by simply not being an avid fan of this style or the artists Barricades Rise cite as influences. Preference aside, the song-writing is strong and they’re clearly heartfelt, talented musicians. Whether they can bridge the gap from enjoyable campfire festival music to quality home listening is in their hands.
You can buy the album for $5, quite reasonable if you’re blown away by it, others may prefer to just listen to the tracks for free. Furthermore, if it’s your thing, also available on their website is a series of blogs/rants; the most recent of which is a scathing attack on their hometown Nuneaton. If you so wish there’s even an entire history of their meeting at school, formation and subsequent progression into the band they are today. All available to read on their website, it wouldn’t be out of place to say it’s ‘in-depth. Check ‘em out and make up your own mind!
Review by Patrick Muncaster
Contact Barricades Rise!
No comments:
Post a Comment