August 4th, 2023
After a prolonged hiatus that lasted almost four decades, Rain Parade, a beacon of the Paisley Underground movement, has graced the music world with their latest offering, “Last Rays of a Dying Sun.” Released under Flatiron Recordings and Label 51, it marks the band’s third studio album and their first since “Crashing Dream” in 1985. It’s worth noting that this is also their maiden release since their much-celebrated reformation in 2012.
The album gleams with guest appearances, notably from Debbi Peterson and Vicki Peterson of the Bangles, and the Moore Brothers, adding layers of depth to the already rich sound of Rain Parade.
Critical reception towards the album has been overwhelmingly positive. Metacritic, the review aggregator, pinned the album at a promising score of 69/100, indicating a “generally favorable” reception. Critics across different platforms have echoed similar sentiments. Mojo aptly remarked on the evident age in Matt Piucci and Steven Roback’s voices but quickly highlighted the honesty embedded in the tracks, especially those reflecting on lost time, brothers, and opportunities. The standout tracks, according to Uncut, include the raw ‘Got the Fear’ and the hypnotic ‘Green’.
Mark Deming from AllMusic had particular praise for the album, stating it felt quintessentially like a Rain Parade record, lauding it as a “credible 21st Century version of their trademark approach.” The album, in Deming’s eyes, not only revives their legacy but embarks on a new chapter with “impressive strength and vision.” Meanwhile, Kieron Tyler of The Arts Desk underlined the album’s essence of continuity, emphasizing how it stays true to the Rain Parade ethos.
Track Highlights:
- “Angel Sister” – 3:52
- “Last Rays of a Dying Sun” – 4:20
- “Couldn’t Stand to Be Alone” – 2:34
- “Bring You Back” – 3:13
- “Got the Fear” – 3:03
- “Share Your Love” – 2:43
- “Sundays Almost Gone” – 3:54
- “Green” – 3:36
- “Forgetfulness” – 4:04
- “Other Side of You” – 3:32
- “Left the Fire” – 4:43
“Last Rays of a Dying Sun” runs for a total of 39:34 minutes, each minute echoing Rain Parade’s timelessness and their unparalleled craftsmanship in the realm of rock.
This release is more than just an album; it’s a testament to Rain Parade’s enduring spirit, their unwavering artistry, and a beacon for rock aficionados around the world. Grab your copy, and let yourself be transported back in time, and simultaneously, into the future of rock and roll. #TimelessTunes #FlatironRecordings
