“Chasing Shadows” is the third full length studio album from Black Tide; a band based in Miami which has been around for more than ten years and has toured with some of the biggest names in rock music. The album was released on 16th October through Pavement Entertainment; with promotion in the UK being handled by our friends at Stampede Press. I have to admit that I didn’t know that much about Black Tide and “Chasing Shadows” proved to be a pleasant surprise as I was expecting to hear something different. The labels “thrash metal” and “hardcore” that had been applied to the band led me to expect something that might be a little too heavy for my usual tastes; but the band has clearly moved away from the sound of their early albums.
Read more: NI ROCKS Recommends "Chasing Shadows" by BLACK TIDE
Within the specific confines of our local rock scene in N Ireland and the divisions within our society, I’ve always been a huge supporter of the idea of keeping religion and politics out of music. Given that, and that fact that I don’t consider myself to be religious, it might seem a little strange to find me posting an album recommendation for the latest release from Stryper; probably one of the most famous Christian rock bands ever and a band that have their beliefs very much to the fore in their music. Firstly, I have no issue with people celebrating their beliefs; only with those who try to force them on me - and if I choose to listen to something it is hardly being forced on me. Secondly, “Fallen”, which is released through Frontiers Records on 16th October, is a great album that includes some really excellent rock tracks.