If you're unfamiliar, Roses Never Fade is an international project spearheaded by infamous Integrity frontman Dwid along with T from Vegas; with guitar contributions having been delivered by Pale Creation members Nick Brewer and Matt Shack, alongside appearances from Adami (acoustic guitar) and Stephanie VH (vocals, mbria piano). I've written about "Fade to Black" three times now: First when it was originally released by Rock Vegas in 2006, again exactly one year ago (when it was reissued with bonus tracks by Belgian label Neuropa Records), and now that it's seeing its first stint on vinyl thanks to A389 Recordings. The primary difference here is that two songs, "Don't Let the Hell Come Down" and "...Fear for You", have been omitted (Perhaps due to time constraints? I'm not sure.), so the result is a well-focused 10 tracks in about 33 minutes. Narrowminded hardcore purists have scoffed at this material, but there's simply no excuse for such reactions, as this outlet really is the strongest to have born Dwid's name outside of the almighty Integrity. Walking the line between a dark, acoustic-based sound somewhat reminiscent of Integrity's sorely underrated "Heaven Inside Your Hell" and flirtations with "apocalyptic folk" (or whatever you'd prefer to call that Death in June type of sound), there are even some borderline spaghetti western-inflected atmospheres present throughout. Despite relying almost solely on acoustic guitars and whispered vocals, it's an intriguing listen where some tracks come across as more melodic while others feel further abstracted/manipulated, and there's plenty of variety explored through assorted layering techniques and such. I also enjoy the effectively stripped down rawness to aspects of the recording: There are a couple of little areas where you can hear things like chairs creaking or other subtle background noises resulting from mic'd acoustic guitar playing that are pretty curious. A number of the tracks demonstrate some seriously amazing songwriting, too.
Roses Never Fade "Fruition Revisited"
It has been through an uncertain manner that my only device has turned to vice and fully enveloped my being. I no longer see, nor feel as others do. I have done my best to convince my fears that this is evolution, this transcends what others have grown too content with, but I still harbor reservations...
Each LP comes with a download code, and collectors should note that there are still some clear vinyl copies leftover from the pre-order phase. Those less concerned with holding something in their hands can purchase the album digitally for a mere $5, too...
Get It
A389 Recordings (clear vinyl)
A389 Recordings (black vinyl)
A389 Recordings (mp3)
Comments
This is pretty good stuff. I loved the “Heaven Inside Your Hell” track off of Seasons and this is close to it. Talking of Integrity, cannot wait to see your write up on the Integrity/Rot In Hell split. I’ve only heard the track Dwid put up on youtube but it sounds like the best material they produced in over a decade. Seriously good stuff.
2.24.2011 | By Something Once Dead
This stuff sounds awesome! Like integrity unplugged!
2.25.2011 | By Sounder
This is the music hardcore and metal guys make when they get old. I love it. I’ll probably be swimming in this stuff when my nonexistent beard turns gray.
2.27.2011 | By Invisible Oranges