Artist: Rise Album: Posing As Human
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Genre: Folk / Rock
Release Date:
March 2004

General Info:
Second offering from the Scottish Alt. Folk Rockers, "Posing As Human" shows the bands ability to retain it's core sound / persona whilst using their song writing skills to cater for their burgeoning new fanbase in the U.S.

Track Listing (Audio stream / MP3 available for highlighted tracks)

1. Don't Stop The World
2. The Way Things Are
3. The Gallows
4. Both Sides The Tweed
5. Get Away
6. Green Grow The Rashes-o

7. I Will Love You Always
8. Fading Fast

9. Posing As Human
10. I Will See My Love Again
11. Welcome To The Real World
12. Love At The Five And Dime
13. Woe To Live On
14. Trust Me
.
Being an avid fan of the band's first release "Uncertain Wonders" I looked forward to hearing the new album with anticipation, and I'm happy to say, I wasn't disappointed. The whole CD maintains the purity and freshness of U.W. with the feeling that the first album's critical acclaim has given the band a greater confidence in their more-than-capable abilities, which also shines through in the wonderfully professional production of every track. There aren't many albums that contain songs which touch me to the point of bringing on tears, but listen to track 7 "I Will Love You Always" and I guarantee you'll be moved every time. The title track "Posing as Human" with it's world beat & thought-provoking lyrics is also a real spirit stirrer. This is not to say this is a sad or melancholy album - far from it, the CD covers every aspect of the folk rock genre from traditional Celtic to Alt. Rock, with touches of mainstream pop and even Bluegrass & country as a dedication to their American fans! If like me, you're a fan of Rise's traditional Celtic vibe then this album is a must-have based on the strength of the tracks I've mentioned alone - but the beauty of this album is it's subtle weave of musical influences gives it an appeal able to be appreciated by a much wider audience too.

Reviewer: Mark Edwards