REVIEW: ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’ by The Winter Codes
Fans of Bob Dylan! If you enjoy storytelling music that’s paired with expert guitar playing, then you’re going to want to know about The Winter Codes! Having released a new album, ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’ on August 1st, they’ve excited fans all over the world with their mastery of music. From the minds of David Walshe and Blood or Whiskey founder, Barney Murray, ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’ is one that you need to know about!
Leading up to the album, The Winter Codes brought out their lead single in ‘Too Sly to Die’ giving fans a taste of what was to come with ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’. Delivering a single that contained nothing but great music and lyrics, it gave fans of the Irish duo a lot of reasons to be excited for what was on the horizon, showcasing exactly what it is they’re capable of.
Choosing not to stray away from what was so great about the lead single, the album kicks off with ‘North Circular Road’. It feels right at home with some of the best Irish folk around today – pacey drums, bouncing guitar work and storytelling lyrics that are relatable in so many ways. Following this style throughout the album, it’s clear that they’ve perfected a sound and style that is needed in folk music with songs such as ‘Friend in Tullamore’ and ‘Erin’s Lovely Lee’, showcasing a consistency in approach that results in the highest quality of music. ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’ will excite anyone who loves traditional Irish folk and good music alike, with so much to admire from start to finish.
While they’ve perfected a style as I’ve mentioned, what stood out to me was that they demonstrate a versatility that helps keep their music fresh, and also adds to the respect you have over their abilities. Songs such as ‘Thirty Years of Tears’ show a clear difference in approach, having nothing but vocals on the track – it keeps within the vocal sound of Irish folk, but shows their adaptability in how they can transition from one style to another with absolute ease. From storytelling lyrics to acapella, the only constant is the high quality and how easy The Winter Codes make them seem.
In making ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’, The Winter Codes sought out the help of some really talented individuals, adding to the already immense talent on display – with Daithi Meila from Irish/bluegrass band Jig Jam, singer Lisa Loughrey and engineer Sean Montgomery all giving a helping hand on this record, and they absolutely do not disappoint. With heaps of talent and a core sound that is fantastic, ‘Set The Darkness Reeling’ is definitely one to add to your playlist. Having already come out on August 1st, this is your sign to press play! You will not regret it.