Colourtone’s Latest Album is a Touching Rock Masterpiece
eavy cascade of guitars and sneering vocals, contrasting with the funk-laced, deep-rolling groove of album highlight ‘Leave It All Behind’. Even the short, rough-and-ready musical intermission, ‘Purge’, serves its purpose well. The true power lies in the closing anthems: ‘Jesus Crisis’, ‘Home’, and ‘Broken Pieces’ chart a constantly evolving journey. They channel a classic punk aesthetic before shifting into melodic, almost bright moments, culminating in a titanic finale where jagged guitars collide with distant vocals, leaving a chaotic sense of wonder.
‘Horizon’ is ultimately a timeless celebration of collaboration and a powerful final bow from one of Australia’s most influential guitarists. The album, a long-anticipated labor of love, took years to reach completion due to Stuart Fraser’s declining health and eventual passing. The delayed release has added a layer of mystique and reverence to this musical offering. The project, a product of the Gold Coast music scene spearheaded by Lee Bradshaw, stands as a testament to dedication and evolution in the face of adversity.
This poignant album is not just a mere compilation of tracks but a sincere homage to the late Stuart Fraser, a guitarist whose legacy reverberates through each note and chord. Bringing together a group of accomplished musicians, including Fraser, Brett Garsed, Angus Burchall, and Rich Panaia, ‘Horizon’ encapsulates the spirit of a true rock brotherhood. The record contrasts raw, high-octane energy with heartfelt emotions, creating a harmonious blend of musical styles that resonate with listeners on a profound level.
From the gripping opener ‘Whistleblower’ to the pulsating ‘Headlight’, the album delivers a sonic experience that transcends boundaries. A fusion of classic Aussie rock elements with a modern twist, the tracks on ‘Horizon’ showcase the band’s versatility and undeniable talent. Each song tells a unique story, from the grunge-heavy ‘Lullaby’ to the funk-infused ‘Leave It All Behind’, painting a vivid auditory landscape for listeners to explore. The album’s short musical interlude, ‘Purge’, acts as a bridge between the different moods and tones, leading up to a climactic trilogy of anthems that epitomize the band’s evolution and musical prowess.
In conclusion, ‘Horizon’ is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and creativity. It serves as a fitting tribute to Stuart Fraser’s legacy while showcasing the collective talent of Australia’s finest musicians. The album’s delayed release only adds to its allure, elevating it to a status of reverence and admiration among fans and peers alike. An emotional rollercoaster of sound and sentiment, ‘Horizon’ is a rock masterpiece that stands the test of time and solidifies RockColourtone’s place in the annals of Australian music history.