Album Review: David Holmes feat. Raven Violet, Blind On A Galloping Horse

The acclaimed producer, composer, sonic shaman and musical renaissance man might’ve made us wait 15 years for a new solo album, but you know what they say about all good things? Temporarily leaving Hollywood behind, David Holmes has crafted an album from the heart, and it’s his most powerful, political and personal opus yet.

Featuring ice cool, Siouxsie esque vocals from his god-daughter and star in the making Raven Violet, Galloping Horse serves as a reminder that Holmes is a pure thoroughbred. Inspired by the blight caused by Brexit, his battles with mental health and the world rapidly unravelling, David’s self-described “part protest album” offers hope in a hopeless age. A record that doesn’t pull any punches, it’s loaded with knockout songs, especially the hook-laden hymn to misfits ‘Necessary Genius’.

Driven by dreamy synths, the song’s final line, “I believe in Lyra McKee / I believe in Sinead O’Connor / I believe in refugees”, will ensure it’s a live favourite for years. Elsewhere ‘It’s Over, If We Run Out Of Love,’ co-written with Noel Gallagher, is a euphoric slice of Madchester alt-pop, while the hypnotic ‘Emotionally Clear’ tips a cap to ‘60s girl groups.

In an era where everything has become bite-sized, Holmes has served up a banquet.

Listen to Blind On A Galloping Horse below.