“Scarlet Sunrise” is a testament to Tim Benson’s creative vision and his ability to seamlessly blend traditional Irish music with rock elements. From the opening track to the final notes, Benson’s love for these two genres shines through. It feels rooted in this traditional folk roots, but somehow much more hard-hitting and grandiose through the incorporation of these distinctive hard rock elements that come crashing through right from the onset on “The Yellow Turtle”
A completely instrumental project, Benson lets the music speak for itself. Through his masterful use of melody, rhythm, and instrumentation, he creates an emotional landscape that is both invigorating, seismic, and serene.
Benson’s love for Irish traditional music is palpable in every track, but it’s this smashing fusion with rock elements that truly sets this album apart. The guitar work is outstanding and the drums pound with ferocity. It’s a heady mix that Benson pulls off with aplomb.
The track names may seem arbitrary, but they are just a small part of a larger musical tapestry that Benson has woven. “Scarlet Sunrise” is an album that rewards careful listening. It’s an immersive experience that transports the listener to another world. It remains to balance this traditional core with a fury and scale that hard rock provides.
It’s a celebration of the past and present, a blending of old and new that feels both authentic and fresh. Fans of Irish traditional music and rock alike will find something to love in this album. Personal favourites for me come towards the end, namely on songs like “Grand Prix” which just roar and drive with such a captivating pulse and variety in arrangement.