09 Feb 2024 // A review by Chris Chick
Listening to music should evoke an emotional response, to evoke a response that is both positive and uplifting is very difficult to do. I am sure those at the top of their game can argue that it is a talent that comes easy to them, but all the unseen variables that come into play through just living, making friends, going through the highs and lows of life. It is obvious to me that Ravenhall have something special in their approach to music and its application. Not only does the music sound fantastic, but the vocals are also so easy to listen to, so easy in fact, you should go and listen now. The use of an array of instruments and electronic sounds is like a tramper standing next to a trail, a journey is about to commence.

This is a really well put together album where no one song stands out of place. The two songs Chemical Fire and album title track Brother are two exceptional songs that really set the pace nicely for an album that is full of feeling and positive connotations. Brother sits well with me as someone who holds dear to close friendships and family ties. It conjures up visions of sitting in a beautiful part of Aotearoa with your best mate as the sun is going down reminiscing days gone by, the memories that will be shared for a thousand years, bit of hyperbole there, but I am sure you get the sentiment.

A Travelling Story is probably my favourite song on this album only due to the fact that it has a very upbeat tempo, which suits my upbeat presence, but also for the title. As someone who had travelled extensively in my youth, it conjured up memories long hidden in the recesses of my mind. It then did something rather extraordinary; my mind was then filled with an impulse for journeys that have not yet been. I sit here clapping my hands in appreciation slowly mouthing the words, ‘bravo Ravenhall, you have given me a new motivation’ this is a very high accolade to give from my own personal being.

This is a wonderfully put together album that flows like the Waimakariri river from the alps to the ocean, you know the trip will be epic and there will be a few surprises along the way. Each time I listened to this album, the familiarity came quickly, this is a very good thing in my comprehension, it shows how quickly in was taken in by the sounds, the rhythms, the vocals, the blending of instruments, the words used to convey messages. I cannot recommend this highly enough, do yourselves a favour today and pick up a copy of this album, you will not be disappointed, if you are, consider it character building.

As a side note, having just visited their Spotify page and noticed how many plays they have accumulated. It is my mission in life to increase that number four-fold, that is how much of a fan i have become. I salute you on your hard work.

With a profound blend of passionate acoustic guitar-driven tunes and poignant storytelling, Ravenhall, hailing from the heart of New Zealand, speaks directly to the hearts of their listeners. Founding members Joe Ravenhall and Chris Brebner, both seasoned veterans of Auckland's vibrant music scene, have been collaborating for years, bringing a wealth of experience to their project. Ravenhall isn't just a band; it's a musical journey, an exploration of emotional lyricism and open-hearted melodies that drew them to music in the first place. Together, they've crafted over a hundred songs, each contributing a dynamic personality to enrich the band's distinctive sound.

Officially debuting in 2015 with the release of their single Everything To Me, Ravenhall has since expanded their signature sound through a series of singles, cultivating a devoted audience across New Zealand. In 2021, they released their EP The Coming Storm, showcasing their intricately crafted songwriting and reaching new listeners both in their home country and beyond.

Excitingly, Ravenhall is gearing up for a major milestone with the release of their much-anticipated 10-song debut album Brother, scheduled for February 9th, 2024. Their previous project, Live at Brebs Bar, a live album featuring accompanying videos, hit all digital platforms in May 2023. Ravenhall continues to push the boundaries of traditional singer/songwriter music, creating a sound that is not only wholly authentic but also entirely unique. Get ready to embark on a musical journey with Ravenhall, where every note is an invitation to connect and feel.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Ravenhall

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