The Answer
Rise

THE REVIEW

The United Kingdom and Rock music. We could dedicate hours and hours to discussing this topic, not to mention the amount of ink it would take to describe what is, in every way, a perfect combination. There is an abundance of material. And something for every taste. It seems superfluous to once again mention the bands and artists who have made this genre great, yet I am pleased that a brand new group from these lands is making its mark on the global music scene. This time, it’s Northern Ireland.

The Answer could truly be the answer for all the rock orphans who are forced nowadays to endure a stream of more or less rock, more or less commercial bands, but with questionable talent. This band was formed in 2000, with distinctly vintage tastes (immediately bringing to mind Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Crowes, and even a hint of Southern Rock), and their first CD (this, “Rise,” indeed) only arrived in 2006, but even in the preceding years, this band began to make a name for itself. In 2005, in fact, the prestigious magazine “Classic Rock” (considered almost a gospel of good rock) elected them as “Best New Band of 2005,” and Deep Purple wanted them to open for several dates of their UK tour. An excellent calling card, even if the true test is called “Rise.”

Their debut album is a blend of all their musical influences, skillfully mixed, carefully avoiding plagiarism, and adding a bit of originality. It's impossible not to think of how important the Led Zeppelin have been for these guys, also because the group’s singer evidently recalls Plant himself. Cormac Neeson is the true added value of this group, singing very well on each track. The single “Never Too Late” is a great hard rock song that has had much success (in addition to selling well, the song is part of the well-known game Guitar Hero), “Memphis Water” is a classy blues rock, and the opening track “Under The Sky” is perfect for showcasing what kind of band this is. All of this is in the first part of the CD. The CD continues well without peaks of excellence but with a more than good overall quality. The skip button seems to be avoided on this CD, where no particular filler tracks are registered. The CD closes with the ballad "Always on my mind," a clear example of a song with more relaxing tones without falling into sweetness. Reaching the end, one gets the impression of facing a band with guts, a band that knows what it's doing and is able to excite with direct and uncompromising rock.

This is not an album that will make rock history. Fundamentally, The Answer haven't revolutionized anything, nor did they change a genre already contaminated by a thousand derivatives. They have tried to revive a genre long dead and buried. The CD sold decently, and their live performances have always received excellent feedback. The band is in good health, as demonstrated by their subsequent discographic episodes. Unlike The Darkness, who exploded quickly as "VintageRock" heroes and then burst like a soap bubble, this group seems to have clear ideas and broad shoulders to avoid repeating certain typical mistakes of novice bands. The pursuit of commercial success doesn't seem to be in the band's future plans, faithful to their personal style. A style that has given them great satisfaction. In this sense, how could they not be proud to open for the gigantic tour of AC/DC? Indeed, these Irish lads opened for most of the dates of the Australian group, always receiving a large amount of applause.

Not bad for a start.