Go Set, The - Rising (Album)

Classic rock, folk and the first fleet have once again combined in the lively sounds of Geelong’s The Go Set.

Rising, fourth album from this dynamic rock group has continued the trend of convict lifestyle and living off the land incorporating rock and folk styling’s with catchy and heart felt lyrics provoking memories of our ancestry. Horns and ska riffs have also been introduced as well as familiar Celtic fiddle to produce a very energetic record.

Something that did seem to be missing this time round is the unmistakable whine of the bagpipes, although they are still there, their presents isn’t as much in Rising as it has been in previous albums, The Go Set opting for trumpets and accordion in its place. Although I felt mixed emotions by its absence, without them the album takes on a much more Australian colonial vibe and distances the band from such Celtic rock bands as Flogging Molly and The Dropkick Murphys.

Although the music is new and exciting, at some points in the album I found the theme drag on a bit and felt as if it was a repeat of their previous work. I was saddened that I felt that way, as I have always liked The Go Set’s music and lyrical style, but lets be honest, how much can you write about a period of time you weren’t even alive for? But when they start writing about their own experiences and life with a folk twist, that’s when it starts to get interesting.

I found Portland 3:15, Eastside Burning and Radio Birdman cover New Race the most enjoyable tracks and found I could really get into them. They were also needed as I found tracks like Armentieres, written about WWI, left me feeling low after the album had built up high spirits.

I think Go Set fans will truly enjoy this album but if Colonial rock isn’t your thing then it defiantly isn’t for you.

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