The brainchild of Dublin brothers Richie and Jamie Martin, Cry Monster Cry’s debut is a journey of sorts, for both its creators and the listener. Made in Malahide over an 18 month period, Rhythm Of The Dawn charts a transition from night to day, employing African drum patterns, synths, steel guitar and more, to tell its carefully crafted tale. Informed by folk, alternative pop and the softer, less overblown side of ’70s prog, the ten-track concept album is a bewitching record, which offers a multiplicity of rewards.
Opening with ‘Darkest Hour, Longest Day’, the Martins’ hushed harmonies are beautiful, while the stabs of electric guitar in the midsection add a welcome edge. Elsewhere, the brass-infused single ‘Postcards’ is a delight, as is ‘Galert’s Grave’, which has a similar vibe to Jeff Wayne and Justin Hayward’s ‘Forever Autumn’. Better yet is final track ‘Homebird’, which boasts stirring strings, heart-swelling lyrics and a huge chorus that is worth the price of admission alone.

Key Track - 'Homebird'