Reviews
Kin-L Album: Hiding In Plain View
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 12
Website: https://www.facebook.com/kinlband/
Whenever I receive a debut album to review I have mixed emotions, a bit of trepidation and a lot of anticipation. Trepidation in case I do not like the music and are therefore unable to give a positive review and anticipation in the hope of finding music to thrill my ears and senses. On receipt of this new album from KIN-L I have to admit that I had already heard one of the tracks on Facebook and therefore the anticipation levels were sky high.
KIN-L is a local band to me, made up of three exceptionally talented and experienced musicians. Robin Van Zelst, Simon Cooper and Ian Barwell. Despite playing together for many years and also pursuing separate musical careers, "Hiding In Plain View" is the band's first album. If you want a taster of the music on offer, the title track will provide a perfect introduction to the band's music.
Debut albums can often be easy to produce as there is no benchmark to compare it with. The follow up is often more difficult as there is an expectancy of quality to be achieved. In this instance, KIN-L have set themselves a monumental task as their debut is unquestionably superb. My first impression was of a Genesis album with its exceptional production and arrangements, outstanding vocals and all-round sound.
The band's individual talents afford the opportunity to deliver and, to an extent, experiment with different genres of music. Elements of rock, folk, and country all combine to produce 12 tracks of pure modern musical quality. Engineered at the Abbey Road studios, every track manages to bring something new to the party and the incorporation of a few guest musicians brings the whole production alive. It also demonstrates what exceptional songwriters the band are having composed every track on the album.
It is unusual for me to really like every track on an album, but this one is an exception. I do not intend to comment on each track individually though, suffice to say they are all superb in their own way. However, two tracks really stood out for me. The opening track "Serious Rain" is the first song that I heard from the band and to which I have alluded above. "Moonie" is a thoughtful tribute to Keith Moon with its sympathetic arrangement and thoughtful and sensitive lyrics. I am sure the wild man would approve!
The band has booked a local theatre for two nights to launch the album in April and I am sure that all attendees, like me, will be blown away by the sheer quality of the music on offer. Talent, experience and a genuine love of music all come together in one bundle with KIN-L.
Rory M Stanbridge
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