Albany Down’s album “Born In The Ashes” delivers a blend of confident, content, and classy rock tunes that showcase the band’s versatility and musical prowess. From the opening track, “Always Want What You Can’t Have,” the album sets the tone with a statement of intent, declaring, “All I ever wanted was a taste of success.” The lyrics exude a sense of determination, and that is all the way through this.
The melodic rock brilliance continues with “Good News,” a track that not only captivates with its melody but also cleverly intertwines humour into its lyrics. The addition of a horn section in “Same Damn Thing” adds a playful element, demonstrating the band’s willingness to experiment and inject variety into their sound.
What stands out in “Born In The Ashes” is the subtlety displayed throughout the album. The harmonies in “The Memory Of What Used To Be” elevate the track, and the closing solo channels the spirit of Sambora, adding a layer of sophistication to the composition. “Reflections” takes a blues-oriented turn, showcasing the band’s ability to explore different musical styles seamlessly.
The title track, highlights Albany Down’s knack for crafting infectious hooks, making it a standout moment on the album. “Darkest Day” thumps with soul, offering a powerful and emotive listening experience, while “Kingdom Of The Blind” introduces a crunchy groove that carries a grandiose quality, you’d imagine this was likely to be a centrepiece in their live performances.
“Don’t Look Back” lets its hair down, embracing a more rocking vibe, and the album takes a joyful, soul-filled turn with “I’ll Come Running.” “Your Days Are Numbered” brings back the Thunder-style, embodying the essence of UK hard rock.
In an effort to explore various musical dimensions, the string-laden “This Heavy Soul” introduces a new touch to the album, showcasing the band’s willingness to push boundaries. Closing with “Let Your Love Shine,” Albany Down delivers a classic sound that feels timeless, avoiding any sense of sounding dated.
“Born In The Ashes” is a well-crafted album that not only showcases Albany Down’s ability to write catchy hooks but also highlights their musical dexterity and willingness to experiment with different genres. The album’s variety, coupled with its subtle nuances, makes it a compelling listen from start to finish.
Rating 8/10
