The darkness shrouds the light, and the wisdom that once was joyous has been overridden. Turbulent times have staked their claim, and the dreams inside talented heads have become nightmares. Hope carries the biggest, heaviest, burden, and it can’t be saved.. There’s a band, that has mapped out their songs like pieces of truth, like notes of heartbreak, and within the record they have produced, there’s some kind of monster waiting to break out.

Cardinal Black is an act creating songs predominantly surrounding their beliefs. Lyrically, the album, January Came Close, bursts with tenderness at moments, but on other occasions, it becomes a masterclass in storytelling. The words describe alcoholic tendencies, private worlds crumbling into dust, and good opportunities derailing. It contains stark observations and powerful introspections, too.

Such an LP of substance and realism, January Came Close, pinpoints moments of youth. This triggers reflections on life, and how we should grab every opportunity with both hands. Love is a topic on this record too, in segments, it seems to be alive, until the sombreness resumes. Musically, the record blossoms, and it doesn’t tire out, as there are highlights throughout.

Those vocals carry so much in terms of rhythm, and the guitars bloom, creating sounds which fit in fantastically well. There are 11 songs on this LP. Tell Me How It Feels explores love and its pitfalls, while the song stretches its wings musically. Half Way starts with pulsating instrumentals and a voice of reason. The lyrics are poetic, and they tell us in-depth stories. It’s a soaring song. Jump In opens slowly, and there are pristine melodies throughout, breaking in. Those vocals are mesmerising, and those lyrics are like poetry for the gods.

Cardinal Black has produced something special, and their music will only gather more fans, and more acclaim.

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