Grace Solero - CD Review
Hundred Years Apart

CD Info
2013
Self-released
15 Tracks
English Lyrics

England has a rich history of producing many well established rock bands since the early 1960s. Because of this, newer rock bands often struggle to make their mark. This history led me to be pleasantly surprised with Grace Solero’s Hundred Years Apart. This London based multi-national quartet is preparing to release their sophomore album which is often considered to be the most difficult for a band. I can say that the band passed the test.

I had difficulty finding out exactly when Grace Solero formed, but they did release their first album in 2010. It is interesting that the band has not been signed with a record label because they have a polished sound on this self-released album that is a testament to their musical talents. Grace Solero fans already know that this band has an interesting stage presence with a tight rhythm section anchored by the bass and drums respectively. This album provides the evidence that the band has matured as a band. The guitar work is both raw and refined with the use of both electric and acoustic. This includes flowing articulate solos mixed with traditional rock chords. Grace Solero, (lead singer), uses the complete range of her training and vocal abilities, from folk to opera, which allows her hold her own with the instrumental music while blending vocally with other voices when needed.

Most rock band albums are either rock anthems or rock ballads. However, Hundred Years Apart is a nice mix of both. Unless you are familiar with Grace Solero, I suggest that you have an open mind especially for the first song. This new album has a harder edginess to it on the rock anthems compared to their debut album New Moon. I admit I was taken aback the first time I listened to it. But as I listened to the whole album and the first song again, I felt an attachment to the album. This album will definitely grow on you.

Grace Solero, also the lead singer of the group provided this insight into the album and its creation (taken from www.gracesolero.com). This album is “the eternal dance of life, love, loss, death and rebirth…. This is the story of all the people who met, loved, lost each other and find each other again.”

The song that attracted me the most is “Far Away.” This anthem/ballad hybrid shows the raw emotion of the band. Starting with the lead guitar (a simple two note opening played by Dan Beaularier), we are then treated to Grace’s raw vocal talent which makes excellent use of her extensive opera vocal training. Underneath all of this is Bjorn Zetterlund’s bass line and Maurizio Liberato’s drumming. In contrast to a soft section, which uses a filtered guitar, we have a harder version of the opening, which includes an expressive duet by Grace and Dan over the traditional rock rhythm section (bass and drums). The song ends with a quieter solo from Grace.

A sharp contrast to “Far Away” is the rock anthem “We Don’t Wanna.” The song showcases the talents of Bjorn and Maurizio with a driven opening. Added to that is Dan’s guitar riffs and the flowing lyrics by Grace. This flows into a slower and softer section with Grace’s softer voice followed by a return similar to the opening. This song could easily become the anthem of the newer generation, much like “We’re Not Gonna Take It” from Tommy or “We are the Champions” by Queen. This song has that much potential, and it is that good.

A lovely and interesting song is the acoustic ballad “The Woman ByThe River.” The acoustic guitar work is outstanding in that it doesn’t overpower the mood of the song. Dan shows us how a simple mixture of arpeggios and straight chords can be used to enhance the song. The guitar work is intertwined with the harp played by Diego Laverde and the chromatic harp played by Steve Nurse. In addition, the vocals are so lyrical; it is almost dreamlike and includes some close harmonies between Grace and Dan.

“Electro” is a rock anthem that uses the driving bass, traditional rock drumming and guitar. What makes this song interesting is Grace’s ability to hold her own vocally against the instruments. Besides Dan providing some backup vocals; vocals were also provided by guest Mariangela Demurtas (Tristania). I just wish that the vocals didn’t sound like they were screaming at times during this song.

Hundred Years Apart in my estimation will solidify and cement the band’s entry into the rock world. I myself am looking forward to hearing more from this group as they mature in the future. I am sure that they won’t disappoint their followers. The band has set a release date gig for the album on September 26th at the Water Rats in London.

9 / 10

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