DAN CAINE

— First review of this album —

Beautiful clearwater revival. The latest album entitled "Rivers" by a British ambient / post-rock artist Dan CAINE was born for cool clean rivers and importance of nature, as the sleeve pic says. Meanwhile, world leaders have finally reached an agreement at the COP26 UN Climate Conference in Scotland (whilst I write this review). Why don't we consider the theme of this album should be perfectly fit for the serious current situation to rush forward such a top priority? We are sure Dan says that the elixir of life is originated deeply in rivers and he has produced this opus for expressing the coolness and clearness of rivers all over the world.

Through this creation, Dan plays his ambient soundscape very smoothly and cleanly. His guitar launches quite simple, slowtempo, repetitive phrases but full of enthusiasm and passion. Sounds like slightly garage-y desert-y sound temperature would mean dry and tough climate conditions nowadays. The third track "Long Profile" has a bit depressive, tragic moments here and there. Dan's guitar cries deeply and shouts hoarsely, as if it might call for help to people all over the world. All living creatures on the earth are facing a crisis, and all human beings should stand up for keeping the earth safe and sound. In "Stormwaters" more and more dissected, distorted guitar storytelling can be heard. Crazy exaggerated guitar shouts sound like the earth shouts for us.

Guess every single song has his incredible emotion and attitude, regardless of his composition not so innovative nor progressive. We the listeners can touch such a crucial issue under the difficult circumstance, via this opus. Good job.