Rival Falls
is the dual effort of music writer Paul Broome and Natasha Blanco-Dominguez
whom pens the album’s lyrical content. The two are UK based and fall into
the genre of “dark pop.” This is there second album(*). While the
lyrics reek of a personal nature being predominately about emotional struggle
(love, anger, loss, betrayal, etc.), the music is more of a background for
matters that the writer needs to express.
Now pressing on with the rather disgruntling task of admitting there’s nothing about the music that stands out in Rival Falls. It’s near the same sound I’ve heard from other bands that share this genre. Now, I’ll also note to you listeners there are a couple tunes worth appreciating for how easily Broome’s music speaks for Natasha’s lyrics and how effective the music is for creating an ambiance.
Explain shows a fair amount of darkness with distorted vocals and mindful guitar work mixed with the lowly synth background. The tune is super creepy, having that stalker appeal in the song’s close with a repeated chorus of “Explain again to me, break it all down for me,” having earlier in the song said, “I will find you, you know you cannot hide, I will find you.” Spooky stuff folks. The music creates an excellent effect for what a person may be going through, say, if they were dumped without an explanation.
Hold On gives Broome a turn on vocals. The intro to this song is way too long, but if you skip through the electronica prelude you will find a firm structure to their sound. The guitar work is right on and the synths are not overpowering, although the rhythm is slightly busy. The tune works for the album’s concept quite well. Lyrics are of a positive nature as well, which is why you’ll find the music to coincide. Sunset, the last track, is a dandy little jig too. Firmly stating what they are trying to say to their listeners with heavy electronics at hand, but not too overpowering.
Overall, it’s an average effort with too much electronic musical equipment to keep track of in the songs. There isn’t much structure and the body of sound gets away from the lyrical message they are trying to convey. There’s just too much going on there at once. Less is more, aye?
* Pihr’s first release, Reborn, was reviewed in Legends #125.
Contact
Information:
Post: Pihr, 51 Gold Close, Maple Park, Nuneaton,
Warwickshire, CV11 4XZ, United Kingdom
E-Mail:
pihr@pihr.co.uk
Web:
www.pihr.co.uk
