By Justin Smulison
I’ve interviewed countless rock and metal artists and, when we discuss favourite or most influential singers, one name that is always mentioned is Ray Alder. Best known as the singer of prog-metal icons Fates Warning, for his solo work and as the former vocalist for Redemption, Alder’s voice is clean, emotive and extremely powerful – which is why it is such a standout in a genre that often features harshness and grit.
Following the launch of his excellent new band, A-Z (with former Fates drummer Mark Zonder) and on the heels of his second solo album, II, released last year, and amid the news that Fates would no longer make new music, one would wonder what would be next for the iconic singer. And like progressive music itself, a new direction was revealed: North Sea Echoes.
North Sea Echoes is an endeavour featuring a beloved metal duo – Alder reteams with Fates Warning founder, guitarist and creative driver, Jim Matheos. The result is a debut, Really Good Terrible Things, available from Metal Blade Records on Feb. 23.
This album can challenge (and possibly test) fans of these musicians when they hear that though the voice and players are familiar, Really Good Terrible Things is certainly not a Fates Warning record. Electric guitars are muted to provide an oftentimes ethereal ambience, while Alder’s voice is front and centre, but with a much more subdued delivery, forcing the listener to zero in on the introspective lyrics and wonderful melodic flourishes. These are the sorts of songs you could swear you heard during scenes on powerful dramas like “Six Feet Under,” or “This Is Us.”
As you will quickly note in this video interview for Jace Media, I am a big fan of Alder. In many respects, it was fitting to interview him for North Sea Echoes, as it marks the start of a new chapter in an illustrious career I will follow.
We also of course discuss some deep cuts from the catalogues of Fates Warning, Redemption, A-Z and his solo debut, What The Water Wants.
North Sea Echoes clips: “Open Book,” “Unmoved”
For more information visit: www.NorthSeaEchoes.com
Jace Media Interviews with Alder’s other collaborators/bandmates:
Michael Abdow (Fates Warning touring guitarist and Alder collaborator)
Mark Zonder (A-Z Founder and former Fates Warning drummer)
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