ALBUM REVIEW: Homecoming – Ashen Reach

Despite their short time on the music circuit Liverpool based hard rock outfit ASHEN REACH have already achieved some praiseworthy feats including performing at Bloodstock Open Air and supporting BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE. After a few lineup changes the quintet have been beavering away in the studio and are now prepared to release their debut album entitled Homecoming which is out now via self release. Will this be exactly what they needed to take the next step?

Fighting For My Life kicks proceedings off with a sturdy, traditional rock and rock style vibe that is significantly enhanced by the powerful pipes of frontman Kyle Martyn Stanley, particularly with the alluring chorus lines. Slick solo work is also introduced to add a bit of punch. Epiphany ups the ante with an energetic tone and prominent drum beats to create a more dramatic atmosphere and this enthusiasm spills over into proceeding track Tear It Down. The groove injected bluesy riff work hits that sweet spot and neatly ties in with another emphatic chorus segment.

Heir To The Throne throws a swift curveball landing into heavier, almost power metal territory. Downtuned hefty riffing and a raucous growl unexpectedly appear from out of nowhere to offer up another surprise addition. Alive Again follows in a similar fashion with impressive falsetto bursts and accompanying melodies. The distinct levels of aggression that run throughout also assist in increasing the intensity on show. Prey continues this ‘purple patch’ of enticing instrumentation as tension ebbs and flows to provide an enthralling, thrilling experience.

Ether takes a more calming, subtle approach. Acting like a palate cleanser for what is to unfold. This demeanour cascades into Here I Go which possesses an emotive, ballad type vibe. The silky smooth solo that is introduced towards the latter stages perfectly compliments the mood. After a brief introductory element Hole In The Sky suddenly bursts into life with a sudden surge of vibrance. The skilful vocal work seamlessly combines with the uplifting riffs as energetic waves course through the track.

Broken Column builds on this by diving into intricate guitar work and throws a few further instances of impassioned vocals into the mix where the aggression begins to seep back in. As we approach the final curtain Homecoming welcomes you with an initially floating, calming atmosphere that transitions between proud, confident riffing and a more subdued theatrical effort. As the track progresses it begins to build one final flourish of momentum and the adrenaline fuelled solo runs that become a product of this are superb, providing the ideal climax to this collection.

Homecoming is a bit of a chameleon. Never really settling on a style or tone and this causes a lack of cohesion in the overall product. There is a lot of great material on show but it is evident that ASHEN REACH haven’t decided what kind of identity they want the band to move forward with as the opening few tracks feel like a completely different offering to the entity which completes this journey. With a little more focus on their direction the quintet could become quite the formidable force, particularly if they set their sights on the more progressive, melody driven side of the spectrum.

Rating: 8/10

Homecoming is out now via self release.

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