Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 8.5/10
Memory is something that is tangible and substantial. It may live in the heart of Folk tales, passed down through the blood and tears of those who have no recollection of what certain metaphors or allegoric symbols are for but they remain, intact and waiting patiently for the right moment in which to surface and bring an image or a thought back to life.
Fate the Juggler’s latest E.P. Set In Stone is the feeling of memory brought to life via the Folk/Rock explosive sentiments at the heart of their songs. Music in which to remember, in which to talk sad tales of the death of Kings and in which passion is never truly exhausted, all the thoughts of the symbolic gratefully embraced and shared with no forethought of causing an injustice to the listener’s understanding or enjoyment.
Set In Stone may allude to a time many would wish become true, the resurfacing of chivalric values and the once knightly codes of conduct, yet it has the undertones of something more, an expression of real determination of class, musical, ethereal and the ability to tell a tale with vigour and realism. It is an ability that should not be taken lightly, for in the depths of such tales lives harmony and truth.
The E.P. may arguably allude to all that but it has the realistic intent of the modern day epoch, the argument and the endeavour in which to show just how words can wound and heal, how they bind and flesh out the markings of those that are imposed upon and those that do it willingly. For Robert, Kirsteen, Kit, Linze and Dan, it the marking in the sand, the sword’s cut in the flesh, which determines where truth and misrepresentation lay.
The songs are unruffled, they spark with innocence and the untroubled gesture, the grandness of opulence found in the sweet caress of musical instruments given flavour and room to breathe and in the E.P. title track, Lies (You Tell Yourself) and Her Auburn Hair, the music is tantalising and so well crafted it, it feels as though it has been forged in the fire of the finest bladesmith.
A wonderful E.P. which burns brightly and cuts through the swathe and rubble to set its own high distinction. Set In Stone is a charming and erudite set of songs, grounded and yet one that is lofted upon high.
Ian D. Hall