Self-released (label)
28 August 2015 (released)
28 August 2015
The Ravines spanking new studio album EVERYTHING’S FINE may well be a prophetic title of sorts… Given the down-to-earth brilliance and catchy feel-good factor of its 10 tracks, I’ll be damned if things weren’t fine for the band after this release!
Masterminded by songwriter, producer, frontman and general all-round talent Chris Corney (ahab / The Contrast / The Quireboys) and drummer James Crossley (The Contrast), fans are treated to something which is refreshingly uncomplicated power pop infused with the right amount of edge and influences that keep the senses stimulate. Also aboard is Andy Hawkins on bass and on backing vocals.
Opener ‘Everything’s Fine’ (also available as single release) is a real stonker that boasts a rich melody veined with groovy hooks and a smooth guitar solo. Lyrically, the song seems like the antidote to boring domestic tidiness but hey, who cares when you have that special person around sharing drinks, peanut butter, and a good time with you? Sounds a bit like my own place…
Check out the hilarious video for the song on YouTube: it lampoons 70’s style sitcoms and stars Corney as a factory worker coughing up a plan to sedate the company boss… so he and his mates can leave early for band practice. The video also features ex-Hepburn drummer Tasha Baylis and bass guitarist Ed Mander. Dig those sleeping pills!
Corney’s exquisite voice prominently comes to the forefront on ‘Blue Eyes’ – a modern Bonnie & Clyde saga of sorts, or whatever else it might be that comes into your mind upon listening. Once again, spiffing chords and a “The Highway is endless and it belongs to us” vibe make for an easy-going pop-rock tune Americana style. Dig that highway!
‘Tambareen’ is an upbeat affair about lost chances but is also a love song to a lady who plays our artist’s heart like a tambourine. The confession “In my darkest dreams you still play your part” is both oh so romantic yet to the point. The composition is tightly held together and boasts an infectious, resonating sound. Dig that tambourine!
Next up is ‘Daydream’ – packing the punches with its dominating drum beat and fast rhythm. Here, the vocal teamwork comes particularly nicely into effect. Dig that dream!
We are entering Tom Petty-style territory with the roots-rock hued ‘Dead Letters’ – it’s harmony laden and bursts just about everything else that makes for a great and memorable song. Once again, a guitar solo nicely rounds up the track. Dig that hollow tree!
‘Indigo’ starts out with a mid-paced bluesy rhythm and gradually builds up to a more fleshed-out chorus and richly textured song. This one is on the laid-back side and it works well like that. Dig that cold embrace!
The previously released ‘Working Class Girl’ evokes the very best of 60’s surf-pop/garage power pop – its perfectly layered and its dead catchy beat instantly stays with you. Dig Susanna Benn’s backing vocals!
Corney’s obvious love of West Coast rock is eminent on ‘Right Man Wrong Time’ – highlighting his talent for sharp, kooky wordsmithery and penetrating tunes. Dig those lyrics!
A curious blend of elating chords and sombre lyrics form ‘It’s Only Love’ – perhaps not the most outstanding number of the album but nonetheless a finely crafted affair. Dig those feelings!
Closing track is the beautifully sentimental ‘Queen Bee’ – a reflection on life’s up and downs, hopes and regrets, and the fact that all is over all too quick. The song thrives on its folky acoustic guitar that serves to emphasize the mood of the meaningful lyrics. Dig that sting!
This has got to be one of THE must-have albums of the year (did I just say “Dig that album”?), and with a total play time of only 34 minutes is the right length to press that ‘Repeat’ button over and over!
