Ashley Reaks - The Body Blow Of Grief
(Self release)
Out Now
There’s a unique familiarity about a new Ashley Reaks album. The tight arrangements, the superb poetry and
of course, amazing artwork, the latter of which is no exception on The Body
Blow Of Grief, are staples for his massive work output.
Reaks, is a modern-day enigma. Only predictable in his unpredictability, he
fashions albums like his life depended on it.
Often disturbing, tracks turn corners and accelerate onwards without
warning, keeping the listener on their toes and wondering where they will head
next.
It’s continually difficult to pigeonhole Reaks – post-punk, jazzy,
improv, prog – there are hints of all sorts.
Maybe a meeting somewhere Beefheart and Bowie, he creates not just
soundscapes but also picturescapes, where his detailed and down-to-earth words create
imagery both beautiful and horrifying.
You really need delve no deeper than opening track Home Is
Where The Hurt Is to witness the diversity of vocals and sounds to see what
lies ahead. The Body Blow Of Grief isn’t just an album, it’s a journey, an
experience, a fifty-minute blast of escapism and a taste of hallucinogens
without even having to reach for them.
