shadow reprise - chasing rainbows

Shadow Reprise

Chasing Rainbows
self-released; 2013

3.8 out of 5

By Demiera Harris

Every so often, I come across an album or work of music that will make me stop everything I’m doing and grab a friend. “Hey! I know this isn’t what you normally listen to, but you must give this a chance. You’ll thank me later.” Shadow Reprise’s Chasing Rainbows is just the kind of album you can’t believe you’re listening to. No matter what your musical background or general taste, it’s hard to ignore the level of musicality and sheer heart that went into this album. 

“Back to the Start” is a breathtakingly beautiful orchestral introduction. You immediately realize you’re in for something special. The following song “Seek the Unexplained” is a soft, smooth pop, reminiscent of an acid jazz feel. The music is uplifting and sweet, while the vocals are eerie and haunting. The juxtaposition works oddly well here. 

“Tornado” has an intriguingly persistent piano melody that cascades into soothing and floating vocals. It strings you along for a bit; you know there has to be a bit more coming, and the middle of the song does not disappoint. It ends abruptly though; rather than fully complete the song as it began, it leads instead into “Glory,” a funky jazz inspired piece with plucky attitude. This turns out to be an even more satisfying approach than anticipated, as “Glory” really takes off creatively with echoed harmonious vocals and deeply complex rhythms. 

“Divine Clarity” is a perfectly placed interlude, with heavily nuanced violin tones and a rumbling deep end that’s balanced by an almost pristine higher tone. The grasp of minor/major scales here is unbelievable, though the knowledge is applied very simply. The interlude leads into “Everlasting Song,” a song that immediately brings to mind the thought of pixies prancing in flowers. 

“Transcend” sounds just as the title suggests. It lacks the deep low end many of the other songs have, but near the end you realize that’s just how it should sound; the different higher toned elements are masterfully woven together and you are treated to an elevated sense of sound. And just as you’re contemplating the lack of a low end on the previous song, “Our Last Day on Earth” comes and reminds you that the journey is not over yet, and takes you to the opposite end of the spectrum. This song more than compensates for any depth you thought you needed, and then some. The piano really carries the song here, with strong chords punctuating throughout. 

“Be Still” takes full advantage of 3-D effects, alternating so strongly and quickly from ear to ear that you can barely keep up with it. A wonderfully harrowing piano creeps in while you’re distracted, accompanied by the orchestral tone we’ve seen so much yet have hardly become acquainted fully with. 

Deep, lovely and beautiful, this album is the tragic theme we all need.

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