By Andrew Bansal
Rahm is the eponymous creation of unsigned independent Israeli prog rock composer and multi-instrumentalist Rahm, and his five-song debut EP ‘Between The Lines’ was self-released on November 12th 2016, presenting these tunes that exhibit prog and psych rock influences as well as his own musicality.
The EP begins with the FLoyd-esque, soothing, slow and melodic composition ‘You Are Not Alone’, boasting of solid acoustic guitar play, soaring melodies and well-sung vocals and vocal harmonies. The title track follows as a relatively more melancholic but richer in instrumental layers, and makes a strong impact with the combination of the arrangements and the expressive vocal delivery portraying great emotion and expression. The ballad-like ‘Always On The Run’ maintains a similar mood and vibe and is concise in its 3-minute length and is predominantly keyboard/piano driven. ‘Coming Home’ delivers mighty fine clean electric guitar and sax work, while ‘Fool For You’, the happiest and most upbeat tune of the lot, brings the EP to a close.
Throughout the EP, the vocal deliveries of both the male and female variety stand out, although the female vocals play an integral part. The songwriting is impeccably fitting with the vocal layers, and Rahm showcases excellent repertoire with this multi-layered creation in which the role of each instrument is well-written and performed. Besides, with flawless production and a perfectly balanced mix, Rahm’s attention to detail and quality, despite being a fledgling independent artist, is notably refreshing, and proves that this release comes as well-planned and thought-out, and by no means rushed, impatient or half-hearted. Admittedly, Rahm is not pursuing music as a full-time career at this point in his life, but undoubtedly gives his musical creation as much time as it needs to realize full potential, as evident from the final product that is ‘Between The Lines’.
For fans of progressive rock and bands like Pink Floyd, Dream Theater and Porcupine Tree, this release by Rahm is familiar in its cinematic prog tendencies yet unique in its emotion and instrumentation, and is well worth the listen.
Rating: 8/10
Release Date: November 11th 2016
Track Listing:
1. You Are Not Alone
2. Between The Lines
3. Always On The Run
4. Coming Home
5. Fool For You
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