Posted by: leeway | April 21st, 2011
Dark Water Rising originally hails from Robeson County, North Carolina, and credits their name as a reflection of their upbringing. The dark water of the Lumber River served as inspiration in naming the band, and the tracks in this album prove to be similarly dark and mysterious at times, joyful and upbeat in others. The band features the talents of the Locklear family (Aaron [drums], Eric [bass], Corey [lead guitar], and Ciera [keys/vocals]) with Charly Lowry and Brittany Jacobs completing the group on vocals, guitar and saxophone. The ten listed tracks (plus one bonus) present a compelling mix of a rock-n-roll, soul, and traditional music, offering a stirring introduction to the music of Dark Water Rising.
The album begins with the stark, stripped down "Opening Ceremony," which segues into the moody, haunted "Over My Son." This track begins with a bluesy feel, before venturing forth with a spiritual, gospel sensibility. The track morphs again, and vocals delivered with calm assurance sound like a summons, calling one home for revival. This delightful song changes directions frequently, and proves to be a highlight of the album. The melodious strain of cello frames the vocals at the heart of "Find Away," and the closing measures of the song are defined by lovely, urgent harmonies. Soulful vocals remind of regret and lost love on "Hooked" and offer a stirring, emotionally forthright portrait.
"BrownSkin" is a charged anthem, featuring big voices, tribal rhythms and dynamic harmonies. "Same Old Thing" provides another dose of urgent vocals and guitar, while "Love's Mystery" provides a splash of power chords and rock-n-roll urgency. Piano lingers at the perimeter of "What About Us," establishing a wistful, reflective tone. This proves to be solid foundation for the track's three part harmonies, and the song concludes with expressive guitar and vocals. "Subject to Change" proves to be a pensive, thoughtful track highlighted by cello, and assured vocals. The album closes in placid waters, offering an additional acoustic version of "Hooked" to close the album. An additional unlisted "mystery track" comes to light after "Hooked," and this song features the dynamic, assured vocals that characterize the album in general.
In reviewing the Dark Water Rising album, I am most fascinated by the album's urgent vocals. The tracks are imbued with the essence of swamp water, and a sense of dark mystery pervades the album. The musical compositions range from stripped down affairs like "The Opening Ceremony" to robust numbers like "BrownSkin" and "Love's Mystery." The production qualities of the album prove to be warm and inviting, and the album's vocals emanate from my Bose speakers with ferocity and passion. A fan of strong, heartfelt lyrics will find much to chew on in this album, as the tracks all feature lovely, warm singing voices. Dark Water Rising offers an excellent debut with the tracks in this album, and I look forward to the band's future developments and musical releases.
- J. Evan Wade
