NEWRISING

Becoming too hot for their native Guildford to hold, this trio are masters of what a press package describes as 'acoustic groove'. Such spiel is justified entirely, though, as exemplified by an electric guitar obligato on the coda of 'People', and console-enhanced percussive effects throughout a captivating debut album, they have no qualms about venturing beyond. Via a confident, clean breadth of expression, it's almost the sound at any given moment that counts more than individual songs. Indeed, the clipped jitter of some passages wouldn't be out of place on the disco floor.
Nevertheless, meaningful lyrics and strong melody usually dominate as much as the most profoundly developed rhythmic pulse - to the extent that, despite a forceful gusto displayed on, say, 'Make It Work', and an overall stylistic determination that's light years from 'The Wild Rover', an opus such as 'My Friend' would pass muster in a folk club near you. So would the emoting of creative pivot Jay Carter, whose breathtaking tenor is reminiscent of Colin Blunstone's. Yet, for all New Rising's reference points, mentioned or otherwise, there might not be - and may never be - another musical entity like them.


Alan Clayson 4/5* - Hand to Mouth Publishing

"This is acoustic folk with funk, drive, passion and power. There’s a wealth influence encapsulated in their songs - everything from folk storytelling through Afro-bass bounced funk to blues-influenced angst. Close three part harmonies weave together to create a musical tapestry of colour and depth. Adam lays down the groundwork on which Jay builds his guitar and vocals, while Tom provides a solid anchor for their music." - Folkwords

"Jay Carter stands head and shoulders above so many of the singer-songwriters working the circuit. His effortless groove and red wine vocals never cease to delight."

...Tristan Seume (Guitarist magazine)

- Future Publishing