ALBUM REVIEW: The Acoustic Verses [2021 Remaster] – Green Carnation
The Acoustic Verses, for those who are first coming across GREEN CARNATION, was first released 15 years ago. It’s a creative output that looked to challenge perceptions of what the band could be and to change direction yet again even in their earliest days. Now, with a remastering, this 2006 record has gained a new depth and can be seen in a new light.
Sombre and low, this is a record to have on in contemplative times, to gather yourself in its songs and to be still. The haunting, unearthly wailing of Maybe has a distinctly melancholy feel to it, the ebb and flow of the melody sitting against the ever-rising swathes of the drum kit. GREEN CARNATION’s work has a very personal edge to it, and this record feels like an introspective reflection on who each of its members were at the time.
Alone is still particularly captivating in its story more than anything, with the uplifting strings and the cyclical chords pulling it round and round again. It’s fun to listen back to this remastering and hear what can be changed dynamically while still appreciating the original idea. High Tide Waves is especially mystical, a rising surge of tension and melancholy, a defiance and a gentle relaxing into the calmer waters of its second half. There’s something of a jazz influence throughout, and even in its final moments the song balances the strain of the chorus with the personality of the guitar.
09-29-045 has something of INCUBUS’ Morning View feel to it through the first five minutes. It’s not a massive surprise given that GREEN CARNATION have been known for their progressive sound, and the record was released around the same time, so there were clearly some overlapping influences. That’s no bad thing, as the heaviness and the dramatic tension between voice and strings has a weight that adds a complexity to the emotional side of the music. However, while this is undoubtedly a beautiful piece that opens up into many different styles and ambiences, it’s a little long for someone looking to be immediately drawn in by this record.
There are lots of little highlights throughout the record, like Transparent Me, which is a shining example of how great guitar work can carry a track without it having to be blistering electric soloing, opting instead for grounded, detailed acoustic work that lifts the layers of vocals to an even higher place. Both versions of Child’s Play, Part 3 are great too; they add a gothic level to the record that’s even better in this remastered state. However, it has to be said the live version at the end of the record is a very special rendition of the whole piece and puts a completely new spin on the arrangement.
All in all, this remastering of The Acoustic Verses could very well reintroduce old fans to their favourite record from GREEN CARNATION in a whole new light. For new fans, it might not be the clincher that immediately draws you to their work, but if you’re interested in the history of the band and acoustic music, this will hit the spot.
Rating: 6/10
The Acoustic Verses [2021 Remaster] is set for release on December 3rd via Season of Mist.
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