Having started writing for this record nearly seven years ago, Sydney’s Rufflefeather had no way of knowing that it would finally be released into a global atmosphere of societal and existential questioning. But in many ways the timing is perfect; This Waking Dream looks for truth, love and transformation out of angst and anxiety.
Lyricist and frontman Zane Thompson delves deeply into self realisation throughout this adventure of an album, as well as the need to “reimagine the world in a way that works in harmony with nature and will not lead to our demise”. All of this may sound like it’s leading you down the path on the heels of the white rabbit, but Rufflefeather aren’t quite heading to San Francisco with flowers in their hair. Blending psychedelia with alternative rock, This Waking Dream delivers blazing riffs, hard hitting rhythms and insistent melodies in the vein of Black Sabbath or Tame Impala.
The labour of many years, the album was recorded in two halves and between two different studios. However the final record comes together seamlessly, showcasing intricate arrangements and layered instrumentation. Mixed by the legendary Paul Lani (David Bowie, Prince, Steve Vai), Lani has followed the band’s progress closely since the release of Misanthropy in 2013; “This is music! Rufflefeather is not merely listened to and enjoyed…it is experienced in the most mind blowing way.”
Possibly without meaning to, This Waking Dream beautifully reimagines and contemporises some on point, zeitgeist-y influences. Modal progressions and the inclusion of a flute permeate the album with a prog rock feel, the syncopated rhythms and tripping piano embellishments calling to mind In The Court of The Crimson King on final track When One Is Shown. But Rufflefeather are much more than a throwback band. The arrangements are hefty and meaningful, channelling post grunge bands like The Mars Volta and Tool. Thompsons vocals in particular are dextrous and there is even something of Jeff Buckley as they soar above the guitars.
All comes together to lead you through a record that feels rightfully like an album, rather than just a collection of singles. Rufflefeather are drawing on what had come before, but This Waking Dream is ultimately very much of its time. We will have to wait until the time that venues reopen, this a record that should definitely be experienced live.
THATSWHATWETHOUGHT 