Amazingly, there have been more albums to listen to and keep track of early in the year than usual, so today I'm taking a break to talk about a few of the recent singles that have come out. Let's see what smaller treats we have been given.
Jules & The Howl and Adam Nye - Rule Your Mind
After commending Jules' cover of "All Along The Watchtower" in a previous roundup, I was intrigued to hear what her own artistic voice would give us. The answer is this concentrated burst of energy that smacks you in the face, much like the cold temperatures do when you step out the door on a winter morning (at least where I am). The guitars have bite and a bluesy riff, the electronics and loops are perfectly utilized in the song's 'color' section, and Jules is impassioned as she sings about taking back control of her own person and reality. Control isn't something we always have, but she has it all over this track. It's perfectly constructed, and when she finally releases her howl, if you pardon the pun, it's a defiant statement that rises above the usual noise. Well done, Jules.
Illumishade – The Eternal Vow
I really loved the songs on Illumishade's debut album, and now we're being given a new one-off track that carries right on from where that record left off. They are already masters of putting together heavy modern guitar playing, symphonic metal ideas, and rousing choruses. Fabienne makes it sound effortless to create these sweeping journeys, when it's anything but. They are no fluke, that's for sure.
Jorn – Faith Bloody Faith
Did we ever think Jorn would be competing in a contrived song competition? Whatever it takes to get a proper focus is fine with me, and his need for mainstream appeal on this song makes it the best thing he's recorded in a long time. Rather than recycling his Dio-isms, he has a stronger pop sensibility, despite the subject matter. It's a fun, catchy song, and makes me sad Jorn has never made a solo album anywhere near this good.
Bloodbound – When Fate Is Calling
I've expressed my frustration with Bloodbound many times, but it boils down to this; their entire career has been taking sounds from other bands. The good thing about this song is that it didn't immediately hit me who they are borrowing from. Maybe I'm simply not aware, but it could also be that they've finally done something original. That would be a relief, although even this song doesn't deliver a great composition if that's the case. Bloodbound is a perfectly average band at this point, and their one shining moment is a glorious moment in time that will never return.
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