Liam Singer’s ‘Arc Iris’ comes from a very different perspective in comparison to the majority of contemporary pop releases, drawing on elements of classical and folk, as well as prog rock, popular musicals and orchestral compositions. The wide-ranging stylistic elements make for an interesting listen that’s not short on theatre or drama, and has a hint of Sparks about it.
It’s hard to tell if it’s the work of a musician of great vision and superior intellect, or just art-ponce posery, and somewhat ostentatious titles like ‘Prelude (Into the Luminous Currents)’, The Dance of Cupid and Psyche’, ‘Plestiodan Fsdciatus’ and ‘Unhand Me (You Horrid Thing)’.
‘Stranger I Know’ has its basis in what sounds like a dramatic Celtic jig, and ‘Dear Sister / Gears Turn in Gears’ shows progressive tendencies, laced with grandiose strings and theatrically epic proportions. The chamber pop stylings of ‘The Astronaut’.‘Forever Blossoming’ introduces an element of discordant jazz to the already broad stylistic palette, and credit where it’s due, Singer pulls it off and sounds comfortable as he slips from one genre to another, his soaring vocals confident and comfortable with every mode of delivery.
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Although at times a little pompous and bombastic, ‘Arc Iris’ portrays Singer as an adept composer and a man in possession of a voice that’s both technically and musically impressive.
Liam Singer Online
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