Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

This debut release from Irish outfit the Maroons combines a pile of ‘90s influences, a touch of moody acoustic strumming is blended with a bit of Brit pop guitar and an absolutely huge vibe. Emotional music which rips at the heart and soul swooping and diving in intense waves. You can probably guess – I love it! Produced by the combined genius of Dave Lynch and Iain Archer and featuring Halcyon Days’ drummer Stephen Orr, ‘3 Miles’ is a compelling ride from the opening title cut which builds from a brooding start to a musical explosion when vocalist Johnny Parks screams “Take Me Home!” “Rain” is more uplifting and anthemic with some great guitar work from Stephen Hamilton. “Always There” begins with a jangly intro before breaking into a bit of a groove underpinning the plaintive Parks vocal. There’s plenty of atmosphere on the brilliant “Come What May” which matches an evocative string arrangement with acoustic guitar and another vocal performance which sends shivers down the spine especially when Parks sings “I’m so in love with you” in the closing section of this seven minute epic. Truly wonderful! “Heavenward” has a groovy gritty guitar riff matched by an achingly vulnerable vocal whilst “Set On You” returns to acoustic territory and the sort of passionate gentle worship that would appeal to lovers of Delirious? And like D? the Maroons blur the boundaries between worship and rock music with songs like “Feel” and “Breathe” that simply lift and inspire. Fabulous intoxicating vibey stuff!

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