• The Blackheart Orchestra – Diving For Roses

    Artist:
    Album:
    Hellie Posted On July 9, 2017
    0


    The Blackheart Orchestra
    Diving For Roses
    Tracks: 12

     

    Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington, aka The Blackheart Orchestra, from Manchester, have in recent years been working on something of a musical reinvention, and the long awaited release of Diving For Roses is testament to that evolution. I have to begin by saying how stunning the CD artwork is; beautiful. Their name has evolved from Blackheart to The Blackheart Orchestra and it is clear to see why; you could easily be forgiven for thinking that there is an entire orchestra accompanying them.  It is  remarkable what sounds and effects can be created by just two people!  Between them they utilise acoustic guitars, electric guitars, bass, piano, organ, synthesiser, drums, percussion, omnichord, portasound, heartbeat and breaths.  That’s no small list, without even considering  the exquisite vocals and perfect harmonies. Chrissy has been compared at times to Kate Bush and I can see the similarity, although I think Chrissy’s voice has Avery distinctive sound all of its own.

    Produced by themselves, along with Glenn Philips and John Ravenhall, the CD features twelve new tracks, all written by Chrissy and Rick. Their lyrics are as intense and pensive as ever. It is difficult to choose between them, but I would have to say that stand out tracks for me include Sebastian, Now That We Are Ghosts, Darling Africa and Falling. Together, they offer a sound that is ethereal, haunting, thought provoking  and dramatic.

    The musical path this duo is carving is truly something different; unique, creative, intriguing, it honestly needs to be heard to be appreciated.




    • ADVERTISEMENT

    • SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

    • SUBSCRIBE NOW


    Enjoy this article? Support No Depression.

    Help us continue to keep our web content free and accessible to all – without paywalls or invasive pop-up ads.

    Your support is important because it helps us cover our costs so that we can continue bringing you the independent music journalism you know and trust. Please consider subscribing or donating to No Depression now.



    A Little Help Here?

    No Depression depends on reader support to bring you top-quality roots music journalism on our website and in our quarterly journals. Donations large and small are greatly appreciated, and will help us hit our goal of raising $15,000 by Dec. 31.

    Can you help us get there? Donate or subscribe using the buttons below. Thank you for your support!

    Please consider becoming a subscriber or providing a donation. With your help, No Depression can continue to grow and cover roots music the way it deserves.