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THE REASONING - "Dark Angel" Although they hail from Wales, do not worry because there is not a hint of Charlotte Church, Catatonia or Tom Jones to be heard on “Dark Angel”, the sophomore release from Cardiff-based sextet The Reasoning. Instead, what you get is a blend of many intriguing musical ingredients that come together to create a really enjoyable and rewarding listening experience. The roots of the music sit deeply within the genre of melodic rock but also branch out to encompass a touch of metal here and there (“Call Me God?”), some relaxed prog and even a smattering of folk and pop. One moment I hear Marillion, the next, a guitar lick calls to mind Anathema. I could continue with the comparisons but to do so would prove fruitless because the myriad of atmospheres and textures that The Reasoning create, are so wide ranging and impressive that that it would be a very long list. Suffice to say that if you like intelligent, modern rock music, you’ll find something to get very excited about on this album. Apologies if this review appears a tad disjointed but as I write this review, my thoughts are continually brought to an abrupt halt by yet another beautiful vocal harmony, subtle keyboard melody or guitar lead. Yup, it’s that good! It is clear that all six musicians are masters of their arts but crucially what makes The Reasoning even more unique and satisfying than other bands of a similar ilk is their three-pronged vocal attack led by Rachel Cohen, ably assisted by guitarist Dylan Thompson and keyboardist Gareth Jones. It is an approach that genuinely works and provides a lovely sense of variety to the well-crafted songs on “Dark Angel”. The fact that The Reasoning is a mere three years old makes this album all the more impressive. As good as this album is, a word of caution: even my Mum likes this! So, if you wish to maintain a miniscule amount of credibility, play this album away from the oldies! By Matt Spall - Powerpoints - 9
THE REASONING - "Dark Angel"
There are many things
that set Welsh sextet The Reasoning apart, not least an ear for a
melody and a thoughtful approach to building their songs.
However it's the delightful three-way vocal split, melding the
gritty rock of guitarist Dylan Thompson, keyboardist Gareth Jones'
ebullient pop blast and the more ethereal tones of Rachel Cohen ,
that really strikes home. That and an approach that marries the
dynamism of Led Zeppelin's "Presence" and Yes' "Relayer". THE REASONING Club Riga, Southend – Saturday 19th January 2008 The Reasoning released one of my favourite albums of last year and played a sensational gig at this very venue to back that up. Tonight, they were even better, appearing to be even more comfortable and relaxed with their material. With the band in the throes of recording their sophomore release here was the prime opportunity to air some new tracks and the three that were laid before an appreciative and enthusiastic audience bode extremely well for this particular release and the bands’ future as each sent a frisson of enjoyment through the venue. The first, ‘Breaking the Fourth Wall’ started out as a delightful piano ballad with the three vocalists interweaving their sections to superb effect. It built to a splendid instrumental finish with guitars and keyboards trading lines. The other two, ‘Sharp Sea’ and ‘Dark Angel’ (the title track from the new album) both showed a heavier side of the band with huge riffs that are right up there with the likes of Dream Theater, so it seems the band have added an extra dimension to their approach. The latter track has an acapella section that also demonstrates their versatility and quality. Around these new gems we were treated to every track from the debut (although ‘Within Cold Glass’ was limited to the shows’ intro and not played as an encore as detailed on the set list), all of which were brilliantly delivered, so much so that I was entranced by the music and forgot to make many notes. However, as before the title track from the debut, ‘Awakening’, was utterly superb and to me highlights why this band are so good. They have three excellent vocalists whose voices are very different in timbre yet work together perfectly. On this track they each get their chance to shine as they switch who takes the lead and it is utterly delightful. Something of a surprise was the band opening with a Karnataka track, ‘Talk to Me’, which they delivered as if it were their own. Later on they split ‘Chasing Rainbows’ with a terrific snatch of Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’, thus inducing smiles from all those in attendance. Without a doubt The Reasoning are destined for great things and this performance will have convinced everyone who witnessed it. I can’t wait to hear the finished album and to that end I signed up for the special edition at the merchandise table. Gary Marshall - Fireworks Magazine The Reasoning Wolverhampton at The Robin 2 – 20th January 2008 View - Standing stage-right. The Reasoning are much more than an identikit prog band. Formed by bassist Matthew Cohen, following his departure from Magenta, they're one of the most exciting new British prospects of the last few years. The key is the interplay between the three lead singers, guitarist Dylan Thompson, keyboardist Gareth Jones and ex-Karnataka vocalist Rachel Cohen. Individually each would shine, and the impact of three such fine singers is exhilarating. They open with Karnataka's Talk To Me, tonight's only nod to former bands, but this is a far more dynamic unit than Karnataka. The show included tracks from The Reasoning’s fine self-titled debut, including the wonderful title track, a couple of covers, and songs from the forthcoming Dark Angel. This will be an album to savour, and it should enhance their growing reputation. Paul Quinton - Record Collector The Reasoning – “Awakening” “The confident debut of a band that oozes talent and fun!”
The Reasoning are a stunning six piece rock outfit who have risen in a very short space of time to supporting Marillion and generating impressive advance sales of this CD. Formed by ex-Magenta bassist and Cardiff resident, Matthew Cohen and fronted by eye-catching vocalist Rachel Jones, the band have talent to burn. With this style of classic rock back in vogue, they are in demand on the rock and festival scene. Keith Ames - Musician Magazine Summer 2007 edition The Reasoning – “Awakening” The re-emergence of two popular members of Magenta and Karnataka in The Reasoning will have the prog fans jumping for joy. In truth, however, this band’s hard-hitting sound is more classic rock with a progressive hint, sometimes reminiscent of Deep Purple’s more thoughtful musical moments. With the opening title track this Welsh six-piece are off to a flyer, the three part vocal interplay and punchy material are a wonderful assault on the senses. From there they just don’t let up, building solidly to the closing climax of Within Cold Glass, on which Marillion’s guitarist, Steve Rothery, adds a dash of colour and texture to what is already an accomplished sound destined to go the whole hog. 8/10 – Jerry Ewing - Classic Rock Magazine August issue 109 The Reasoning – “Awakening” Have we not been here before? A new prog band and with a debut album and Marillion’s Steve Rothery making a guest appearance. I think so and yet again the package is a splendid piece of work with all the drama allowed within the progressive rock genre. It had to be something special with former elements of Karnataka and Magenta part of the framework. The difference this time being that lead vocals are being shred by former CRS Female Vocalist of the Year (and who knows?), Rachel Jones, Dylan Thompson and Gareth Jones. With six members of the band including two guitars and keyboards with the multi-vocals, the sound is rich and with some depth. The intentions are made clear from the beginning of the opening and title track, with atmosphere created by keyboards and some driving guitar riffs. The three voices work really well together giving the impression of a rock opera with each voice playing a part. Much to admire, a breath of fresh air and certain to be popular among readers of this magazine and worthy of some air play too. Martin Hudson - Classic Rock Society May 2007 The Reasoning Classic Rock presents Prog Rock Special Edition Magazine With much loved Welsh Celtic prog band Karnataka seeming little more than a glorified covers band these days, the first ex-member to really step up to the prog plate is Rachel Jones (her old vocalist Anne-Marie Helder has moved into a more folk rock direction; we still await Panic Room), who appears alongside ex-Magenta bassist Matthew Cohen in The Reasoning, a new six-piece whose debut album “Awakening” must surely set them up as one of the brightest hopes for the future. With vocals split between Rachel Jones, guitarist Dylan Thompson and keyboard player Gareth Jones, and a sound that delivers earthy classic rock with swathes of complex music that is always melodic, the album will have long-time prog fans salivating. The fact that Marillion guitarist Steve Rothery helps out on “Within Cold Glass” is likely to titillate them even more. The Reasoning are beginning to make a name for themselves on the touring circuit, with reports that they pack a serious punch live. The Reasoning are a band with big balls! The demure Ms Jones aside, of course. Jerry Ewing The Reasoning – “Awakening”
From the first notes on
this CD, I already felt it. This is one of the bands that you want
to see on stage, of which you are eagerly waiting their next
release. Or in a nutshell, a new name in my favourite bands list. A
glance at the names of the musicians explains the reason for this
instant appeal. Founding member Matthew Cohen used to play the bass
guitar in Magenta and Rachel Jones was lead singer of Karnataka. The Reasoning – “Awakening” Not content with having two excellent guitarists in Dylan Thompson and Lee Wright, on this – the band’s debut release – iconic Marillion guitarist Steve Rothery is wheeled out to provide a guitar solo on closing track ‘Within Cold Glass’. Indeed, when I saw the band play live for the first time in early March, he did exactly the same when this song was performed (perhaps confusingly) as the encore! There’s nothing like presenting a tasty cake and then apparently adding the icing as an afterthought! (Liz Prendergast from Blue Horses who provides violin and mandolin on this dramatic and haunting song did not also appear on the night). To continue the analogy, as cakes go this one has a wonderful recipe! Not just two superb guitarists, but three great vocalists – the aforementioned Dylan Thompson, keyboardist Gareth Jones and (the trump card!) former Karnataka front lady Rachel Jones. You don’t need to be a clairvoyant to realise that the vocal textures, harmonies and leads are potentially an explosive and beguiling mixture – and I can assure you they are just that. The personnel is completed by accomplished drummer Vinden Wylde and (catalyst of the bands very existence) former Magenta bassist Matthew Cohen. Most bands would surely give their eye teeth to release a debut album with the sound quality and production values of ‘Awakening’. Produced, recorded and engineered by Matthew Cohen and mastered with the help of Lee Wright, only the mixing stage was handled externally; a hugely notable accomplishment. The performances show a band with members who have gelled together very quickly and who appear (from the live set that I witnessed) to be relishing their new opportunities. I have already alluded to the vocal mixture and every track and every fresh listen of every track reveals nuances and pleasures in this department and the musical arrangements are equally as persuasive and impressive. The album comprises eight songs that are really quite diverse in nature and intertwine a huge variety of ingredients, including psychedelic, celtic, gothic, progressive and (at times) heavy rock elements and reference points. I feel that this variety in some respects helps to insinuate the compelling nature of the album after multiple listens. Their writing has been very much a collaborative effort, with the final form evolving from cumulative input over time, and if there is a change that I would anticipate for the band’s next release, it will be – perhaps – a more cohesive set of songs from a team of experienced and imaginative writers working together from their inception. However, for now this magical release will do just fine. Give a listen to the album’s title track that appears on the sampler accompanying this magazine; it is an exquisite introduction to the treats in store when you make a purchase! I’m quite sure many of you will want to…
Paul Jerome Smith - Fireworks Magazine
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