Brighton’s Memorial released their second album, ‘Redsetter’, back in May via Lucy Rose’s Real Kind Records. It followed 2022’s critically acclaimed self-titled debut, but could it match its prowess?
Image and artwork courtesy of Longevity PR
‘Redsetter’ is an album searching for meaning for men approaching the settling down period of their lives. On ‘Corduroy’, songwriting duo Ollie Spalding and Jack Watts ponder the present and allow the itchy fever to creep in that perhaps they’re not ready to relinquish “steady day-drinking / soaked in that memory light”. Despite the unwillingness to let go of this freedom, King Creosote's hypnotic hooks and lush melodies of Kings of Convenience lend it an eloquence that pulls from the friendship of The Detectorists far more than anything toxic.
The vulnerability they let in gives the record a curiosity and tenderness to the moments they are less clear of thought. It parks darkness and shows a side to masculinity far more in keeping with the common man than bravado rock ‘n’ roll often does. On ‘White Campion’, the low-light folk of Richard and Linda Thompson’s early work combines with the beauty of Judy Collins and the lo-fi richness of Alfie and Bon Iver’s debut. The luscious combinations allow this poignant coming-of-age tale to take an emotive stranglehold of your senses and never let go. There’s a real sense that the clouds have parted and that commitment and fatherhood don’t have to mean a relinquishing of your identity. Still, through the heartfelt vocal, a loving acceptance that sacrifice is pleasing will work in tandem.
The songwriting fervour peaks on ‘Honey’, ‘Circle’, and ‘Silver’, lifting the record to album of the year contender. The former, a song with suicide undertones and subsequent mental health issues is as pure a song recorded this decade. The gentle warmth of James Yorkston and the ethereal folk of Bon Iver delivers a woozy moment of comfort for anyone struggling. ‘Circle’, meanwhile, takes the peak Turin Breaks for a woozy meander on this beautiful ode to letting go. Then, the album is given its crowning glory on 'Silver'! The vocals range from the potency of CSN and the joy of Paul Simon to the aching beauty of Ben Bridwell (Band of Horses). They create an addictive richness on what is, quite simply, an instant classic! The subtle but soaring orchestration fades into the ether with an autumnal glow's beauty but inevitable decay.
‘Redsetter’ is often an enigma, and it is unclear how the protagonist crosses the most significant crossroads. It lends itself a curiosity and a poignancy that music lovers will lean on in their darkest and happiest moments. Nothing short of an alt-folk triumph!”