Imagine having to wait almost forty years. The wait has been long, but the payoff is huge for fans of psychedelic rock and the legendary Los Angeles scene of the1980s. One of the most significant bands of the Paisley Underground movement, Rain Parade, returned after 38 years with a master work of melody and atmosphere titled “Last Rays of a Dying Sun,” released in 2023 by Label 51 Recordings.
This is more than just a return; it’s a confirmation of why their sound initially gained notoriety.
A Foundation of the Paisley Underground: Beyond a Label
For the uninitiated, the Paisley Underground was a period of time, not just a genre. In the 1980s, a group of bands from Los Angeles, including peers like The Dream Syndicate, The Bangles, and The Three O’Clock, made the decision to draw inspiration from the psychedelic songwriting and textures of the 1960s while incorporating a punk-rock aesthetic. Rain Parade created this sound with their dreamy, hazy melodies and shimmering guitars. Emergency Third Rail Power Trip, their debut album, is still regarded as a neo-psychedelic classic. (This doesn’t read right to me but I need to work on it.)
The Sun Rises Again: An Album Track-by-Track Exploration
Night Crickets’ latest album, How It Ends, builds on the themes they began exploring in A Free Society, diving even deeper into the nuances of endings, loss, and resilience. David J describes the album as “a contemplative exploration of endings,” with sounds that blend dark psychedelia and uplifting pop—a contrast inspired by albums like The Beatles’ Revolver.
“Last Rays of a Dying Sun” seems more like a continuation than a reunion. Matt Piucci and Steven Roback, two of the founding members, continue their relationship exactly as they did before time passed. Each track on the album is a voyage through glistening soundscapes.
Angel Sister
A soft, evocative instrumental opens the album, setting the mood right away. It’s a warm, hazy sound that gets you ready for the melodic journey ahead, much like when you drift into a dream you know well.
Last Rays of a Dying Sun
The title track is Rain Parade at its most iconic. It’s a flawless example of psych-pop that feels both classic and fresh thanks to its driving rhythm, layered vocal harmonies, and jangly Rickenbacker guitars.
Couldn’t Stand to be Alone
This song, which is more reflective and depressing, demonstrates the band’s intricate songwriting. It’s expressive vocals and delicate guitar work evoke a sense of beauty and longing.
Bring You Back
One of the most upbeat tracks on the album, this song is propelled forward by a driving bassline and Byrds-esque guitar riffs, demonstrating that Rain Parade can still rock with the best of them while preserving their distinctive melodic elegance.
Got the Fear
With its hypnotic rhythm and swirling guitar textures, “Got the Fear” creates tension as it moves into a slightly moodier, darker realm. It demonstrates the band’s dynamic range.
Share Your Love
A masterfully composed ballad that demonstrates their sound’s maturity ??. Warm, inviting vocals and acoustic flourishes carry the album’s peaceful, introspective moment.
Sunday’s Almost Gone
This song uses the band’s distinctive psychedelic filter to update the spirit of 60s folk-rock. It’s upbeat and airy, like a ray of sunshine peeping through the clouds.
Left the Fire
“Left the Fire” is a complex and multi-layered composition that showcases the band’s musical abilities. The guitars’ captivating interplay weaves intricate patterns over a solid, assured groove.
Green
a return to the dreamy, iconic psych-pop that helped establish their fame. “Green” is the ideal song for a late-summer afternoon because it is lush, melodic, and completely captivating.
And More…
The album ends on a note of silent reflection with this hauntingly lovely track. It’s a brilliant song that stays with you long after the last note has faded.
A Development, Not a Recurrence: 2023’s Sound
The fact that “Last Rays of a Dying Sun” stays clear of the traps of a nostalgia act is what makes it so outstanding. The songwriting is more polished, the production is richer, and there’s a noticeable sense of confidence, even though the DNA of their iconic sound is still there. This is the sound of musicians who have experienced life, gained knowledge, and come back to their art with a fresh sense of direction. It is an album that honors its history while firmly establishing itself in the here and now.
Listen Now to Immerse Yourself in the Legacy
Listening to Rain Parade’s return is the best way to fully appreciate its magic. We’ve put together a playlist for you that features the entire “Last Rays of a Dying Sun” album in addition to some of their foundational songs. For new listeners, it’s the ideal introduction, and for devoted fans, it’s a welcome homecoming.
This album is a gift, a celebration of the timeless power of psychedelic rock and unwavering creativity. Not only is it a great album, but it’s among the best albums overall.
