DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION – Halcyon Hymns
- Posted on 09-03-2021
Let me kick this review of mine off by stating that the fourth record by the talented Downes Braide Association bearing the evocative title Halcyon Hymns is a hauntingly beautiful and moving opus that serves as the perfect escapism to what is going on in the world right now. Simply put, this is as uplifting as it is reflective and one that you cannot afford to miss out on.
Something magical happens whenever Asia/Buggles/Yes keyboard wizard Geoff Downes and the incredibly talented songwriter/producer Chris Braide join forces and get creative together – the quality of the DBA discography speaks for itself. With Halcyon Hymns, we are moving seamlessly back and forth between prog rock and AOR-infused pop music where exquisitely crafted melodies take center stage. Tranquil parts that ooze nostalgia and longing complemented by Braide’s heartfelt vocals are akin to medicine for the soul and everything unfolds organically throughout. If "Hymn to Darkness", "Remembrance", and "Late Summer" do not touch your soul deep within then you are a lost cause. These compositions speak of the thing we love and cherish, the things we have lost and yearn for, and the many wonders of the past.
Soft Cell’s Marc Almond and Big Big Train’s David Longdon also appear on the disc, but frankly speaking, the inspired artwork by Roger Dean ought to be reason enough for you to invest your time and hard-earned money in "Halcyon Hymns". A marvelous mixture of progressive rock and otherworldly pop music with purpose and meaning to it. Like I said, you cannot afford to let this hugely atmospheric gem pass you by.