We Speak Music
Ridge Runners Deliver Masterful Tune ‘The Rest of Us’
With their most recent song, “The Rest of Us,” Ridge Runner has made a huge step towards becoming a rock star. With an energy that’s apparent from the first note, the band embraces its rock roots and lets go of any pretension on this song. “The Rest of Us” is a no-holds-barred rock & roll experience with its loud hitting percussion, gritty, overdriven guitars, deep organ sounds, and a forceful vocal delivery that demands attention.
The song’s production enhances its effect even further. It was recorded live and captures the unadulterated, unrefined intensity of the band performing as one. The sound of Ridge Runner was captured during the recording process, which was led by Philadelphia music heavyweight Barney Cortez at his studio, The Church. The song was mixed and mastered by long-time partner Matt Poirier, who is well-known for his work with The National and Restorations, guaranteeing a polished but strong conclusion.
“The Rest of Us” by Ridge Runner solidifies their place in the Philadelphia rock scene by showing that they’re willing to lead instead of just following along. This song by a newly formed band leaves a big impression, and it’s clear that their path is one to follow.
London-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Waz-u returns with his second album, Preludes: Dusk Psalms, set for release on 16 May 2025 via independent label Biodiversity. The 15-track record further refines the artistic depth of his debut, blending electronic textures and classical compositional techniques in an intricate, immersive listening experience.
Ahead of the album release, Waz-u is dropping an exclusive vocal version of ‘Vermillion: G Major’ from the album, accompanied by its original instrumental version. ‘Vermillion’ with Lilyg will be released on 18 April 2025, evoking intimate indie-folk and pop and follows the release of a vocal version of ‘Lament’ with Tom Norrington. ‘The singles are a way to give a voice to the atmosphere of the record and to lyrically encapsulate some of the themes explored,’ explains Waz-u. ‘Lily and Tom are good friends of mine and have both been listening to early iterations of these preludes – it felt right to involve them directly on this record.’
‘Preludes: Dusk Psalms’ marks a new branch of Waz-u’s emerging sound, guided by the duality of tradition and innovation. Combining his musical roots in early ‘90s dub techno and classical music, the album weaves carefully layered synthesizers and electronics to evoke the ambience of sacred music — from the gentle timbres of a choir or an organ to the quiet, open, and reverberating spaces of a church. Also featured throughout the album is experimental musician G9 LUV, who creates textures and drones by bowing his bass guitar, resulting in cello-like sounds. The release follows Waz-u’s 2024 debut LP, Prayer For Dawn, which merged dub, techno, and electronica in an exploration of the ritualistic traditions associated with both organized religion and dance.
Bringing the album’s themes to life, Waz-u will celebrate the release of Preludes: Dusk Psalms with a special performance at Our Holy Redeemer in Clerkenwell, London on 14 May 2025. Set against the church’s resonant acoustics, the event will feature live performance arrangements, including a choir, with further details to be announced soon.
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