A cinematic rock sound dazzles throughout A Whisper of Spring, the new album from North Carolina-based project Canary Complex. In addition to a powerful sound that melds dreamy hooks, prog-rock precision, and bossa-nova rhythmic intertwining, Canary Complex also embraces a strong visual component — showcasing an immersive visual kei influence overall, and especially via his guitar covers in video form.
A melodic, heartfelt production enamors throughout the album, which was recorded in collaboration with producer/drummer Michael Rumple at his North Carolina home. “Corsets Fall” opens aptly with a melding of brisk guitar passion and twinkling keys, demonstrative of a meshing between glistening atmospherics and harder-rocking vigor throughout. “We let our corsets fall,” the ardent vocals push into a lovely blend of steady percussion and atmospheric guitar tones. “The Face of God” ensues with an initial harp-like elegance, then propelling into a jangly rock captivation that takes hold throughout.
Another highlight arises in the album’s lead single, “Déshabillez-Moi.” The Parisian feeling emanates in the jangling guitars and accordion feelings, melodically conveying forbidden love within the artist’s atmospheric universe — referred to as “The Imaginary Paris,” and on this track and others consistently stirring in its blend of heart-tugging spaciousness — “please treat me the same…” — and more expressive art-rock pursuits. Third single “Papillon ~Snow Angel~” also captures that soundscape well, alternating between twinkling effervesence, Paris-set love, and passionate rock pursuits. A Whisper of Spring is a fantastic, immersive success from Canary Complex.
In addition to its digital and vinyl releases, A Whisper of Spring includes an artbook entitled “An Echo of Winter” — which provides photos, liner notes, lyrics, art, guitar notation, and beyond.
