Album review: DANDELION CHARM – Scream Inside The Tear

Bandcamp [Release date 20.10.23]

Dandelion Charm, the husband and wife team consisting of Clare Fowler (vocals) and John Fowler (vocals, acoustic drums, guitars, bass, keys & producer), have seemingly been quiet release wise since releasing their excellent ‘Maybe Dreamers’ back in 2o19. On this album Dandelion Charm have really upped the whole kit & caboodle, from the wonderfully clear production through to some stunning guitar solos and vocal arrangements.

Although confronting dark subject matter, ‘Scream Inside the Tear’ contains hope as well as acceptance; the joy of living in the moment and appreciating the life we have.

One of the strengths of the album is that it takes a few spins to really gel and when it does, you can’t stop playing it! Similar to the recent RPWL album (another one to check out if you haven’t already), this is a concept album as the lyrical themes follow a circular structure reflecting the cycles of life, death and rebirth in an ongoing loop.

Picking three highlights, first we have the folky ‘Find A Way’, with its Simon & Garfunkel approved joint harmonies, crystal clear sound, this really is a classic headphones listen. Beautifully produced and performed. Next up, ‘Shouting At The Sea’, again stands out due to its soundscapes and haunting lead vocal from Clare. The music gently rises to a crescendo before fading out on soft guitar strings.

Final one of the three is ‘The Benefit of Experience’, from the heavy intro through to the stellar guitar solos (hints of Gilmour and Rothery), the song also highlights how well Clare and John’s vocals combine.

Dandelion Charm have excelled themselves on this album, keeping their folk roots and adding a lot of prog rock into the mix. If you enjoy Mostly Autumn, classic 70s era Fleetwood Mac or can imagine a female fronted Marillion (that comparison will have the prog diehards spitting their teeth out!), Dandelion Charm have hit your musical bullseye. ****1/2
Review by Jason Ritchie

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Power Plays w/c 9 December 2024

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