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Jun 20, 2017 Web Exclusive By Aug Stone

The first four songs on Weather Diaries, Ride‘s first album in 21 years, nod to the shoegazing band’s early ‘90s output. Feel-wise and melodically, the intention is there but unfortunately the songs aren’t. Single “Charm Assault” seems to have all the elements but is missing that extra bit of magic that made the Oxford quartet so special in the first place.

The record takes a turn at the swaying drone of the title track, which sounds like Ride playing Oasis’ slower hits. Perhaps this shouldn’t be a surprise given Andy Bell was a member of the latter for a decade. “Lateral Alice” is also reminiscent of the Gallagher brothers, albeit their rock side this time. “Cali” moves away from this territory and while different from the Ride we’re familiar with, is a strong pop song with lovely vocal harmonies. “Rocket Silver Symphony” could do without the two-minute build-up but is one of the best numbers on Weather Diaries. Cool drone, pop verse, huge chorus. The true highlight of the album is “Impermanence.” Beautiful from note one, the guitar tone and Mark Gardener’s gorgeous vocal are what we want from Ride.

With the hints of Oasis and The Verve, even The Stone Roses on “Impermanence,” Weather Diaries would’ve fared better in the mid-‘90s and in truth is more memorable than the two Ride albums released during that time. But with this being their first record in two decades, we want the glory of Nowhere and parts of Going Blank Again. It is apparent that this is what Ride are aiming for but it’s going to take more than what Weather Diaries has to offer. (www.thebandride.com)

Author rating: 5/10