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Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Ravens & Chimes: Reichenbach Falls

NY indie-rockers, Ravens & Chimes, deliver a debut album that most artists dream about, but very few see it realized. Reichenbach Falls is an incredible album, that from start to finish, does not fail to deliver the raw passion that these five twenty-somethings have to offer.


When you have a group of trained musicians come together, especially one where all of them have graced the stage at Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center, you would expect an album that is considered 'safe' in some senses. There is a fear that it might come across as unoriginal, but you need not worry when listening to Reichenbach Falls. It is packed with lush soundscapes of winter and holds a certain melancholy about the album that invites you to lay by an open fire and reminisce about the year winding down. At the same time, it gives you hope for what's right around the corner... something will be different.

From the droning guitars to the marching drums to the fluid vocals, these songs feature a rich palette of sounds that remind you of the stylings of Arcade Fire. It definitely does not hurt that Howard Bilerman, who's produced records for AF as well as British Sea Power and Godspeed! You Black Emperor (all favorites of mine), has in fact produced their album as well. The combination of R&C's music and Bilerman's production go a long way to set this album up for great things. I'm definitely keeping my eye on these guys and gals.

Having listened to this album over and over for weeks now, I have to say that it is by far my favorite indie debut this year, and one of my favorites released thus far. The cooling weather is welcomed with this release in hand, and it's a must purchase in my book. So grab yourself a warm drink and enjoy this album to your heart's content. Don't forget to check them out at CMJ if you get a chance and check their Myspace page for tourdates coming soon!

Ravens & Chimes - January
Ravens & Chimes - General Lafayette, You Are Not Alone
Ravens & Chimes - Marianne (Leonard Cohen Cover)


Official Site | MySpace Page | Buy Reichenbach Falls

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