Ray - Here is the Night

  by Helen Tipping

published: 25 / 1 / 2007

Label: Ray
Format: CDS

intro

Melodic and thoughtful balladic rock from London-based band Ray

Ray are Nev Bradford (vocals and guitar); Mark Bradford (guitar); Martin Tisdall (bass) and Chris Lowe (drums). They've been gathering a bit of interest in the press for a while now, although their debut release was in 2001. The opening bars of 'Here is the Night'sounds like it should be a James Bond theme track. Nev Bradford's vocals are deep and melodious, and fit with this ballad really well, with his thoughtful and beautiful lyrics. Second track , This Is A Wave', is darker in sound, almost gothic sounding. I won't say it is because sadly that might be a death knell for Ray and they deserve to be listened to. Besides third track 'Killing Time' moves away from that with a mellower, slightly psychedelic sound. They have another single out in March, and their album, 'Daylight in the Darkroom' has been out for a while. Being a sucker for a well crafted ballad by the likes of Scott Walker or Nick Cave, I'm certainly glad I found these. Talent wins out over Robbie Williams' plasticised, schmalchy offerings any day.

Track Listing:-