Feature: Albums that time forgot – PUBLIC SYMPHONY

Public Symphony

[2006]

Public Symphony is the brainchild of TV music composer (including ‘The Travel Show’, ‘Rogue Traders’) Dobs Vye who, together with James Reynolds, released their one and only album in 2006.

When reviewing the album I opined: “‘Public Symphony’ is a superb blend of stirring choruses, electronica, chill-out and prog. Imagine Coldplay, Pink Floyd and Massive Attack at a party gatecrashed by Ian Brown, and you’ll be getting the plot.”

As with many independent albums of the time, and in spite of a remix a year or so later, the work failed to make any real impact.  It still repays investigation and listeners will find it hugely optimistic and uplifting – a vibe definitely suited to uncertain times.

My review continued: “It is probably invidious to pick out highlights because, frankly, there are so many. If you’ve heard the track ‘Stronger’ you’ll know what we’re talking about. ‘Breakthrough’ could be Human League at their very best. ‘Rise And Shine’ is yet another rousing anthem that should be mandatory listening whilst straightening the skirt or tie before work.”

“Most of all, these tunes are paeans to love lost, love regained, and love affirmed not only in personal relationships but in human kind. It’s both expansive, uplifting and totally convincing.”

The duo only played a handful of promotional gigs including the BBC Club in London when Pete Feenstra commented that “…the duo’s material exceeded expectations.  The melodic swoops … the ethereal hooks, the measured use of layered keyboards and Dobs’ delicate vocal timbre remind the listener of say Coldplay, Pink Floyd, or even 80′s movers and shakers like The Korgis and Rupert Hine.”

To help promote the album Vye collaborated with various animation and film makers, and so the gigs featured a video screen backdrop.  This was an aspect he hoped to expand giving punters a complete audio/visual experience.  An intended second album, aided by crowd funding, has failed to materialise.

David Randall

2020 Vision - Rock. Reviewed. Revisited.


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Power Plays w/c 18 March 2024

GYPSY’S KISS We’ve Come To Play
FM Out Of The Blue (Frontiers)
SHOTGUN MISTRESS Shot Down (indie)
ATTIC THEORY Violent Delight (indie)
FLOYA Yume (FiXT)
SAHAJI Tell Me All Your Feelings (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 18 March 2024

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12:00-13:00 LEAVES’ EYES Myths Of Fate (AFM Records)
14:00-16:00 HOLLY LERSKI Sweet Decline (indie)


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