HARVEST RUNES - "New Age Oblivion"
- Adam Jones - MusicFarmer5
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
MUSIC FARMER 5 - Review by Adam Jones
An Eclectic Journey of Epic Proportions
HARVEST RUNES' latest LP, "New Age Oblivion", arrives not just as another indie rock album; it's an existential expedition, inviting listeners to journey beyond their known selves into realms unexplored. Each song functions as a chapter in an ongoing exploration of identity, asking subtle yet profound questions about our place amidst invisible forces that shape our lives.
"Invisible Forces" opens the album with a exciting surge of brass, as if audibly manifesting unseen energies guiding our decisions. From the very beginning the listener is swept into an energetic dance, accompanied by vocals that seem to whisper, “Have you noticed what's guiding you?” The song invites reflection, positioning listeners to consider their own invisible influences as they journey deeper into the album.
As we move into "Lakeview," the musical landscape shifts to gentler, yet equally compelling territory. Like resting by the shores of introspection, the lush interplay of strings and brass gently nudges the listener toward self-awareness, encouraging acceptance of life's ebbs and flows. The reassuring shift halfway through symbolizes a gathering strength, subtly reminding us, sorrow can inspire, but it needn't anchor you.
With "Lost Lonely Stranger," HARVEST RUNES skillfully mirrors our own search for identity amidst external chaos. A rhythmic pulse suggests footsteps through uncertainty, while contemplative lyrics echo back, challenging listeners to recognize the person behind the reflection. The final orchestral surge—purposefully chaotic—embodies a triumphant embrace of individuality amidst life's distractions.
"Park Ranger" is a cinematic masterpiece that propels us toward decisive action. The urgency in both lyrical and instrumental crescendo acts as a call to arms—"Quickly get away, make our getaway"—reminding listeners that self-discovery often requires a dramatic leap into the unknown.
The empowering anthem "Raise the Sails" stands as a rallying cry within the album, echoing the sentiment that our size doesn't diminish our impact. The metaphor of navigating turbulent waters underscores the theme of human resilience. HARVEST RUNES boldly declares, “We are tough as nails,” urging listeners to acknowledge their intrinsic strength, a defiant response to the surrounding storms of life.
