North Sea Echoes – Really Good Terrible Things
Reviewed by: Eric Valaer
Review Score: 8.5
Vocalist/lyricist Ray Alder and guitarist/songwriter Jim Matheos truly need no introduction whatsoever. These two stellar progressive metal titans have been playing together in Fates Warning since 1987. They both have a multitude of other side projects. I want to get right to the album review of their latest side-project which they contributed together.
Open Book
This is their first single off of Really Good Terrible Things. I discovered the song and video thanks to YouTube. It is an atmospheric piece which is ideal for an album opener. The guitar tone and effects are drawn from Jim Matheos. His distinguished style along with Ray Alder’s impressive range and voice let the listener know they are on a journey. The guitar theme is memorable yet patient. The chorus really lifts you up.
Flowers In Decay
New Wave music had an influence on this tune. Matheos implements a vibrato effect on the clean channel which is a trademark of his. Alder’s voice and the programming gel with the guitar.
Unmoved
Here’s the second single (another wise choice in my humble opinion). The arpeggios performed on the nylon-string guitar are the motor behind this song. The music displays contentment. However, the lyrics are on the other end of the spectrum. Here’s one of many phenomenal choruses on this release!
I’m tired of waiting here for the world,
To change around me every year.
Throwing Stones
This is what happens when Fates Warning, OSI, and Jim Mathoes/Ray Alder solo all intersect. Wow, what a vocal melody during the chorus. It’s arguably the strongest chorus on the album!
Empty
It feels good to hear some chugging guitar. The programming before hand is reminiscent to The Gathering (Souvenirs-era). The ‘live’ drums amplifies the energy during this one.
The Mission
Electricity bubbles from this piece. This is the first track that utilizes live drums and programming. Alder displays a masterclass on how to elevate a song by his singing during the chorus. The guitar playing is excellent too.
Where I’m From
The first sixty-seconds of this tune could be used in a dramatic movie. The verses are abstract with Jim’s blending of guitar parts with unique effects and some low key programming. His creativity and the song as a whole are more impactful while using ear buds.
We Move Around The Sun
What an emotional song! The tension during the chorus when Ray sings the word ‘Around’ absolutely hits you…This is easily the most glass half full tune on Really Good Terrible Things.
Touch The Sky
The layering of guitars and guitar parts had me mesmerized after the first listen (possibly a few more times?). Creative songwriting and emotive vocals are a ‘win/win’. The amount of percussion is just right for this song. Matheos’ use of slide adds another dimension to ‘Touch The Sky’. Adler’s singing especially during the bridge is a gem!
No Maps
Disconnected is one word that a) fits the description of the verses b) has some history with FW 😉 During an interview, Ray states that originally a train sound was going to run throughout the whole song. He went on to state that lyrically, him and Jim thought it would be cool if they wrote about what life would be like of a never-ending traveler (hobo). The soundscapes, lack of drumming, and piano give the tune a Neo-New Age tinge. While this song might not appear to be a typical closing song, it feels like a track that is gradually wrapping up the album.
Lyrically, one of the big take aways I had was the reflection and passing of time. With the first two singles being on the mellower side, I didn’t expect much heavy music. I for one am happy that Ray and Jim released a joint album which is slower, diverse, experimental and very melodic. From beginning to end, there isn’t any filler. Outstanding job Ray and Jim!
Really Good Terrible Things is available on February 23rd via Metal Blade Records.