Ride Blends Classic and Contemporary Sounds in Recent Concert

In a recent performance at Berns, the English shoegaze band Ride offered a mix of both classic tracks and newer material, much to the delight of their audience. The band's vocalist and guitarist, Andy Bell, set the tone early in the concert by promising a 'mixed bag' of songs, indicating that both old favorites and fresh compositions would be featured.

Since their reunion in 2014, Ride has released three critically acclaimed albums, yet the resonance of their early works, particularly from the albums 'Nowhere' and 'Going Blank Again,' remains undeniable. These foundational pieces continue to energize audiences, showcasing the band's enduring legacy.

The concert's first half highlighted the band's ability to intertwine their past and present. Songs like 'Unfamiliar' showcased a bass line reminiscent of dub reggae, while tracks such as 'Monaco' and 'Future Love' incorporated electronic influences that blended seamlessly with the band's original sound, characterized by harmonious guitar layers and rich vocal arrangements. This evolution in their music reflects a more sophisticated approach compared to the band's attempts in the late 1990s, when they aimed to transition into a more conventional rock sound.

However, despite the successful integration of new musical elements, there is a noticeable contrast in the energy levels between the older and newer songs. While Andy Bell and fellow band members Mark Gardener, Loz Colbert, and Steve Queralt have all developed as performers, delivering a more polished sound, some of the raw intensity and explosive energy of their earlier hits, such as 'Dreams Burn Down' and 'Leave Them All Behind,' seems less pronounced in their current offerings.

This shift may be a natural consequence of their musical maturation, yet it leaves certain segments of the concert feeling somewhat drawn out, as audiences anticipate the high-energy peaks that defined their earlier work. Nevertheless, the performance at Berns was a testament to Ride's commitment to evolving while honoring their roots, creating a nostalgic yet forward-looking experience for fans.