Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 8.5/10
The struggle, though denied by those with an agenda that borders on narcissism and selfish need, is real. Only the self-absorbed or the ego-driven would look at another’s struggle and be satisfied at the pain etched on the person’s face, only those that cannot understand empathy seek to kick another human being when at their lowest, only those who see nothing wrong with dancing with indifference would deny someone the opportunity to walk along the Alchemy Road and see their life transformed.
The truth of the matter is we have become overwhelmingly envious and resentful of others who find themselves in a position to for a brief golden moment to have the burden lifted from them, almost to the point where it becomes offensive, for to experience magic of life. We must accept that all should be able to walk at least one road in their life without having to look over their shoulder, that they can appreciate the sun rise from a different angle, that by the time the sun sets the joy of the Alchemy Road should be so infused in their soul that they cannot wait for others to experience it.
So, it is to Rusty Tinder and his brand-new recording, an album steeped in Americana, but one that has the appreciation of the other avenues that lead to the road at the top of the world, one that pushes the listener and the musician onwards, past the crowds blocking the way, and down the road where transformation is possible.
Whilst to the outside nothing may have changed, Alchemy Road is an alteration of self, the narrative may sound familiar, but it is delivered with a confidence, true and strong, that is handsome and glorious, the oration of one who has seen the dark side alleys and noted where the lights have dimmed and set a line for others to follow which burns brightly and with valour.
Across tracks such as Moonlit Kissed, Tululah, Remember Why You’re here, Infinite Grace, and the album closer of Copper Penny Sun, Rusty Tinder strides down the road, looking behind every so often to make sure those who follow are safe, looking forward to beat back the negativity of the unresponsive and those who practise the trivial, but always with a hand hold out aloft so that the listener can walk alongside at any time.
Music of empathy and stories of influence, Rusty Tinder holds it all in the superb Alchemy Road.
Rusty Tinder releases Alchemy Road on July 29th.
Ian D. Hall