The Union Of Souls,
Three Colours RedIt’s amazing how things turn out isn’t it? Back in 2000, after a couple of albums and a decent amount of success, particularly with the single ‘Beautiful Day’, Three Colours Red disbanded, leaving a rabid fan base grieving. Fast forward to the present and following their reunion, minus one original member, 3CR are back with a brand new album, ‘The Union Of Souls’.
Now what was widely accepted as the reason for the band’s demise in the first place was the disagreement over which direction 3CR’s song writing should take. Debut album ‘Pure’ was an album full of anthemic rock, which drew the band comparisons with The Wildhearts. ‘Revolt’ on the other hand was a more musically diverse album, mixing up the anthems with some slower, more mature efforts. The interesting thing about ‘The Union Of Souls’ is how obviously Pete Vuckovic and Chris McCormack are working in tandem again. This is certainly the band’s most intelligent range of work to date. It does seem to follow where ‘Revolt’ finished, but I personally think it seems to be the best melding of the two principle songwriters to date.
What we have with ‘The Union of Souls’ is a great rock album, pure and simple. The title track eases the listener in gently with a slow, brooding opener, built around an incessant guitar riff. The whole feel of the song is enhanced by Pete’s distinctive hushed vocals. ‘Repeat to Fade’ instantly showcases the other side of the band. It’s a big, loud song with an even bigger chorus. It is ‘The World Is Yours’, however, that probably best proves where the band’s song writing has reached. Think of ‘Copper Girl’ and ‘Beautiful Day’ merging and having a slightly heavier edge and that is where you would be. Another little point to make here is that the superb ‘Counterfeit Jesus’ and ‘Desensitise’ are the wrong way round on the album track listing!
Now the first half of this album is very strong. However, the second half is simply outstanding – the band just seems to shift into another gear. ‘Ceasefire’ begins the charge for greatness in style. The twin political commentating ‘Made In Indonesia’ and ‘Land Of Debris’ add another aspect to 3CR’s character – great songs with intelligent comments. ‘F.C.K.U’ is probably the best anthemic rock song this band have ever written. I just can’t stop listening to it. ‘Lullaby’ wraps the whole thing up with a song that’s brilliance lies in its simplicity – it’s just a shame the album only lasts for 35 minutes.
‘The Union Of Souls’ is a triumphant return from a band that have been away from the UK scene for far too long. Welcome back 3CR – we’ve missed you.
www.3coloursred.co.uk
Mark
