THE RISING OF THE LIGHTS

William D. Drake is best known for his work with the CARDIACS and "The Rising Of Lights" is his latest solo album. He is the composer here of course and is heard mainly through his piano and vocal work. This album reminded me of THE BEATLES a lot, especially early on. The vocals, piano and drums dominate the sound. The tunes are fairly poppy but well done.

"Super Altar" is so catchy and I am impressed with the vocal performance. "Ant Trees" is another light and wimsical vocal track and the keyboards sound great. "In An Ideal World" is a change as we get a melancholic mood with reserved vocals and piano leading the way. I like it ! Three excellent songs to start off. "The Mastadon" is piano and drum led and the vocals come in at 2 1/2 minutes. "Ornamental Hermit" is more of the same but there is some depth here perhaps from the mellotron samples. "Wholley Holey" is a bright and cheerful tune with vocals and piano leading. Not a fan though.

"The Rising Of The Lights" has an almost jazzy vibe with bass, piano and a beat standing out. "Song In The Key Of Concrete" is another catchy tune. It's okay. "Me Fish Bring" is my favourite. Piano to open then reserved vocals join in. Female vocals too in this one. Sounds like aboe as well. Beautiful track. "Ziegler" has an almost circus-like melody to it. "Labumum" has male and female vocals with piano. Nice. "Homesweet Homestead Hideaway" ends it in with another catchy tune with male and female vocals. Nice instrumental conclusion to this one.

A good record but not really my style of music.