Afmusic (Release date – Out Now)
Goth rock is never the happiest of genres and Red Sun Revival are most definitely not out to alter that fact. Formed by frontman Rob Leydon this is the band’s first release and it is a gloomy affair. As well as the usual rock band instruments the band have a full time violinist in the shape of Christina Emery to add atmosphere to each track. Opening track ‘My Child’ sets the stall out early with a layered instrumental backing overlaid with Leydon’s vocals which aren’t great but suit the mood. The songs contain shades of Bauhaus and Depeche Mode and are all well constructed with some edging into pop territory, title track ‘ Running From The Dawn’ being one of them.
Goth rock is not something I would listen to for relaxation, but after a couple of listens I had to concede that this record is actually quite good. One thing it does have going for it is that the album mastering was carried out by Andy Jackson who produced Floyd’s ‘Division Bell’ album and he has done a stunning job on the final mix.
Overall then this is a decent album which is sonically fantastic, it is worth a listen just for the production. It won’t however be receiving repeated plays in my household as it is just too damn downbeat for my liking, if I am in need of depression I will watch the News At Ten instead.