Album review overview: Red123, Tremonti and more

Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are way too many to listen to them all, let alone review them. It ensures that too many albums are left behind. And that’s a shame. That is why today we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews.

Sophie Jamieson – I Still Want To Share

Sophie Jamieson’s album “I Still Want To Share” delves into the complexities of anxious attachment and the dynamics of familial and romantic relationships. Co-produced with Guy Massey, the album features deeply personal and emotional reflections on longing, love, and loss. The tracks take listeners on a journey of uncertainty and desire, where Jamieson wrestles with finding a sense of home and letting go of relationships. The album opens with “Camera,” where Jamieson expresses her struggle to hold on to an increasingly elusive love. In “Vista,” she reflects on the intensity of falling in love, while “I Don’t Know What To Save” captures the liberating feeling of letting go. “Baby” meditates on motherhood and the process of creation, and “Welcome” explores the search for acceptance. Tracks like “How Do You Want to Be Loved?” and “Your Love Is A Mirror” provide deeper insight into the emotional challenges of relationships and self-discovery. With its vulnerable lyrics and understated string arrangements, the album offers an honest and intimate exploration of love and loss. (Norman van den Wildenberg) (7/10) (Mattan Records)

Dave Brons – Brons Live In The Shire

British guitarist Dave Brons debuted with his instrumental album “Based On A True Story” in 2015. Since then, his music has evolved, with Irish bagpipes and flutes taking a prominent role. Adding string instruments and brass sections creates a rich, complex sound. Inspired by Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings,” Brons has released three studio albums, culminating in the live double album “Brons Live In The Shire.” This double album primarily features tracks from “Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost” (2020) and “Return To Arda” (2022). Brons’ exquisite guitar work blends seamlessly with Celtic influences. The live album avoids monotony due to minimal chatter between tracks. While the sound is generally clear, it occasionally feels slightly flat. Nonetheless, the passion and emotion in Brons’ playing, as well as contributions from other musicians and vocalists, shine through. (Esther Kessel-Tamerus) (8/10) (Self-released)

Red123 – New Town

Guitarists will notice something special about American guitarist Steve Bryant. His exceptionally long fingers allow him to play patterns unattainable for most, even on the broader neck of a hollow-body guitar. His album “New Town,” released under the name Red123, showcases this unique skill. The seven tracks were mostly composed during the COVID pandemic when Bryant, like many artists, worked in isolation. Experimenting with alternate tunings, he created a technically refined and innovative sound. However, the album isn’t just a display of virtuosity; it genuinely surprises with fusion compositions, unique chords, and engaging interplay between guitar and piano. “New Town” is wonderfully varied, featuring up-tempo jazz in the title track, a relaxed vibe in “There Will Be A Day,” and a swinging groove in “Tom’s Blues.” Tracks like “7 Wonders” and “Blue Gray” incorporate acoustic and classical guitars, along with vocal harmonies. This album is not just for musicians; its diversity will also appeal to fans of artists like Lee Ritenour and Pat Metheny. (Jeroen Mulder) (8/10) (Red123Music)

Trouble County – Blacken The Sky

Trouble County, a British rock trio, delivers their debut album “Blacken The Sky.” Initially slated for release in 2020, the pandemic allowed the band extra time to refine their work. Describing their style as “Vintage Modern Rock,” the band delivers heavy, grooving guitar riffs inspired by Black Sabbath and Black Oak Arkansas. The self-produced album is raw and heavy, reflecting its weighty themes of resource depletion and religious conflict. “Blacken The Sky” is a solid debut that will resonate with fans of both stoner rock and hard rock. (Ad Keepers) (7/10) (Epitronic Records)

Tremonti – The End Will Show Us How

On their sixth studio album, “The End Will Show Us How,” Tremonti once again proves why they are at the forefront of modern metal. Produced by Michael “Elvis” Baskette (known for his work with Alter Bridge and Limp Bizkit), the album features a sound that is both brutal and refined. The twelve tracks showcase Mark Tremonti’s guitar work reaching new heights, with massive, progressive riffs forming the foundation. Subtle melodic layers and virtuosic solos add unique character to the album. Tremonti’s vocal performance is also his most compelling yet, effortlessly transitioning between raw power and emotional depth. This album pushes the boundaries of the genre while maintaining accessibility. Even listeners who typically avoid metal will find themselves drawn in by the hypnotic compositions. With its captivating sound and infectious rhythm, “The End Will Show Us How” is a top-tier release. (Jan Vranken) (8/10) (Napalm Records)