Ride | Interplay
"Interplay," Ride's upcoming seventh album and their third since reuniting in 2015, marks a pinnacle in their musical journey. This album weaves together the essence of their initial style – a blend of intense guitar play, mesmerizing rhythms, and enchanting melodies – and elevates it with a broader soundscape incorporating elements of synth, psychedelic folk, electronic rhythms, and dark, pop-infused textures.
The creation of "Interplay" unfolded amidst challenging times for Ride, including the global struggles of the pandemic, personal break-ups, and a tumultuous legal dispute with a former manager that jeopardized the band's future. These trials have infused the album with a sense of defiance. It balances classic Ride themes like escapism, dreams, dissatisfaction with contemporary life, longing, and liberty with an undercurrent of resilience.
"Interplay" stands as a testament to the traditional album format, offering a cohesive listening experience that ranges from forceful and pressing to reflective and somber. It symbolizes the resurgence of a prominent British group, showcasing their renewed vigor. The album is more than just music; it's about enduring, uniting, and forging ahead. Nine years into their reunion, Ride continues to reinvent their narrative, demonstrating their enduring relevance in the music world.