Vince Leigh’s Single Review: Rebel by The Dreadful Tides
By Vince Leigh (Ex drummer of Pseudo Echo, Tina Arena and John Farnham) of Australian Radio Promotion for Sheldon Ang Media
Roaring back into the spotlight, The Dreadful Tides make their return, responding to the beckoning call of the accelerator with their latest creation, Rebel. In this latest sonic endeavour, the band’s fusion captures an intriguing allure by blending the raw audacity of classic rock with a modern sheen that commands unwavering attention. As the melody unfolds, it extends an irresistible summons, akin to the open road’s seductive allure. Deeply embedded within the recesses of your mind, the infectious choruses take root, while a scorching guitar solo propels its message across the expansive sonic landscape with an urgency that demands immediate recognition.
These seasoned voyagers of musical exploration require no formal introduction to the charts, having previously clinched an impressive No. 2 slot in 2021 with their captivating earworm, Crazy. Their sonic waves have traversed distant shores, permeating the airwaves with a remarkable reach—securing for them a coveted spot on the Rebel FM playlist. Originally conceived as the quintessential companion for a road trip into the unknown, Rebel encapsulates the invigorating essence of a Saturday morning tailor-made for cruising. Its origins trace back to a harmonious partnership with their debut marvel, Crazy, a track envisioned to set ablaze the stage at Melbourne’s illustrious Whole Lotta Love bar.
However, as time wove its intricate tapestry, this composition underwent its own metamorphosis. Under the masterful guidance of producer Ricki Rae, Rebel discovered its rhythm within the expansive embrace of 2022, its engines primed and ready, eagerly anticipating the opportune moment to unveil its blazing entry onto the grand stage. The collective synergy of the ensemble shines—Holden Stirling’s commanding vocal presence, Justin Strudwick’s virtuosic guitar finesse, Wes Hopkins’ rhythmic bedrock on bass, and Leland Hallett’s resonating percussive cadence—all these elements intertwine to establish The Dreadful Tides not as mere arrivals but as dynamic detonations onto the scene. Their inauguration was reminiscent of an explosion, propelling them with remarkable velocity through the echelons of Australia’s hard rock pantheon.
