Review JAY BUCHANAN “Weapons of Beauty”

“Weapons of Beauty” isn’t about thunderous riffs. This album is a deeply soulful exploration of the world of rock, and Jay Buchanan is your musical guide on this journey.

He is the frontman of the GRAMMY-nominated rock band Rival Sons, and “Weapons of Beauty” is his first solo release. It is an emotion-charged album, with songs ranging from hopeful to melancholy. Buchanan retreated to the Mojave Desert for three months to work on the album. Being away from the limelight and distractions of modern life was an experience in itself, resulting in songs full of intensity.

“Caroline” is the opening track and sets the tone for the rest of the album. It is also the lead single and provides a calm and touching introduction to the album. Gentle orchestration and Buchanan’s sonorous voice are key elements of this moving opener. It is a song that immediately touches the heart and spreads a feeling of sadness.

Melancholy runs through the album from start to finish and is also evident in “High and Lonesome”. However, “Weapons of Beauty” is not solely immersed in grey shades; it also contains the vibrant “True Black” which showcases the energy Buchanan can generate with his voice. He is a rock singer, and this is demonstrated perfectly in “True Black”.

The contrast between grief and hope is the driving dynamic of the album. The almost light-hearted “Deep Swimming” is followed by the darker “Sway”. “Sway” is another poignant highlight of the album, showcasing music’s ability to evoke emotion. “The Great Divide” is a blend of rock, Americana and folk – genres that define the sound of the entire album.

The final chapter of this album is the title track. “Weapons of Beauty” is a bittersweet symphony that goes straight to the heart. It is the perfect ending to an album that showcases the beauty of music in its entirety. These songs are a vehicle for deep emotions. The stripped-down approach to music is evident in the tunes, which draw their energy from an emotive quality that defines each track. “Weapons of Beauty” is a tangible album that reflects the fragile side of the human soul. It speaks to the heart and mind equally from start to finish.