Cardinal Black - January came close

 "January came close" is the debut album by South Wales alt rock outfit Cardinal Black".  I got into this band seeing them support Myles Kennedy at the O2 Academy in Glasgow.  Myles better known for being the lead singer of US rock band Alter Bridge.  So, for Cardinal Black to get a support slot with such a respected singer/songwriter, it does make you sit up and pay attention.  And that is exactly what happened that December evening in 2021 where Cardinal Black only had a few EPs to their name at that time.

But guitarist Chris Buck really stole the show with his absolutely incredible guitar work.  And to say he stole the show is saying something considering the strength of vocals from Tom Hollister.  These 2 combined then put into the mix Adam Roberts on drums and Sam Williams on bass and you have one of the most exciting new bands of the moment.

And "January came close" really does not disappoint sitting at 52 minutes in length and 11 tracks. Meaning they really let the tracks flourish and take on worlds of their own.  Buck could have quite easily made it a guitar wizard masterclass and yes there are some fine solos on here.  But the song writing on this is really next level and Tom's soulful vocals are so powerful it does set them apart to what’s out there at the moment.  Even though they are a bit different they are still classified as part of the new classic rock movement that is happening at the moment with bands like Those Dam Crows, Florence Black and Mason Hill and many more.  It sure is an exciting time for rock music.

The album kicks off with 3 very strong tracks which are so warm and uplifting.  Starting off with "Rise up", then "Where do you go?" and "Tell me How it feels".  These tracks set the tone for the album and the album feels like it’s over in a flash.  Other highlights include the 3-track run at the end of the album with "Jump in", "Warm Love" and "I'm Ready"

Overall, such a good album and I hope they end up really taking off.  They have insanely talented individuals in this band who deserve to "Rise up" to the top of the pile.

Albums I am looking forward to in 2023

 Avenged Sevenfold - I have been waiting for this album for a long time and it looks set to arrive this year given festival appearences have been announced and they have said they have a big year ahead.

Beck - Released a Neil Young cover last year.  Hasn't released an album since "Hyperspace" in 2019 so would be surprised if he doesn't release something this year.

Black Honey - Due out early in the year. Last album was cracking - hopefully this one will be too.

Blink 182 - New album on the way next year. New single "Edging" already out which is not bad. First album with Tom De longe back in the band.  Not sure if its a band sign for the album but with a tour already announced, does this mean the album won't be as strong knowing that people have already bought their tickets? I hope not.

Bring me the Horizon - They are working on new material and have Download booked so hopefully some new music before the year is out

John Frusciante - The Red hot chili's gutarist has another solo album out in Feb.  Can't wait to hear what he comes out with this time.

Kacey Musgraves - Pure speculation this one. Just been a couple of years since her last release.

Katie Melua - Another who has announced a tour for a new album but not released anything from the album yet. Looking forward to it though.

Metallica - I never thought I would be looking forward to a new Metallica album but the new single is awesome and this one comes out in April

Nosound - Quite quiet in 2022, but it seems there will be a new album in 2023

Paramore - 2 singles already released from the new album which is due out in March

Rival Sons - Class rock n roll band with a new album out early in the year.

Steven Wilson - Porcupine Tree front man, seems like everything he touches turns to gold. Hopefully this album will too.