There’s been a lot of hype in recent weeks about a possible Oasis reunion, and whilst for many people that would be incredible, it must not detract from the fact that both Liam and Noel have new releases with their own solo projects this week.

Noel and the High Flying Birds have written extensively over recent years, with songs like Record Machine and Black Star Dancing and frequently play live, giving people the chance to hear the new sound of the Oasis founder. 

‘Blue Moon Rising’ takes us down another creative avenue. The distinctive guitars and traditional indie sound is a distant memory. The song starts with a low synth rhythm that sits throughout the track, giving this a much more electronic feel. It’s not until just before two minutes in when the guitars kick in, and when they do they take the vocal to another level. Noel’s voice, whilst still wholly recognisable as Noel Gallagher has a lighter EQ, with ethereal reverb added to give it a much more delicate sound than you might be used to. The song goes from little instrumentation at the beginning to big as the crescendo of the track builds and adds another dimension. More synths are included through the verse and chorus and create edge and give another burst of energy. Noel Gallagher has crafted a beautifully arranged song, that shows his talent as a songwriter. He has evolved from his mid 90s stylistic Birt Pop persona and can create excellent variations that visit many different genres of music, whilst still maintaining his recognisable sound. There is an interesting melody to ‘Blue Moon Rising’ that is angelic and even uses some patterns of blueiers phrases and again, just emphasizes that not only can he write classic indie tunes, he can create songs that will appeal to a new generation. 

It has been a joy to hear the difference in music that Noel Gallagher can make and Blue Moon Rising shows that Noel can really put his hand to many different styles and create a song that will appeal to his fans from way back, but might turn a few new heads on to the classic creations of firstly Oasis, but also more of the newer projects and collaborations.

 Indie     Singer-songwriter 

Author: Phil Arnold

Phil Arnold is a musician, producer and music reviewer from Devon, in the South West of England. Whilst not writing music reviews, Phil also writes and records under the name of Ugbrooke.