There’s a certain kind of song that looks to lift at every opportunity, and ‘Always’, the latest release from Liverpool’s RISE, is exactly that kind of track: delivering a surge of energy, emotion, and purpose that feels built to cut through the noise and remind you of something bigger.
From the very first moments, the track charges forward with intent. The rhythm section drives with a confident urgency, while layers of guitar and synths interlock to create a sound that feels both expansive and tightly controlled.
At the centre of it all is stayMellow’s vocal performance, and it’s nothing short of captivating. There’s a dynamic range here that gives the track its emotional backbone; where moments of restraint give way to a powerful, full-bodied delivery that feels completely unforced.
Guitar work plays a huge role in shaping the track’s identity. Brian Petch delivers with precision and flair, weaving intricate lines that add texture and depth without ever overshadowing the song itself. There’s a clarity to his playing that allows every note to land, giving the track a sense of movement that feels both fluid and purposeful.
What makes ‘Always’ truly resonate, though, is its message. There’s an underlying sense of connection running through the entire piece, and knowing that someone is there when it matters most. But rather than presenting this as something soft or subdued, the band channel it into something powerful and uplifting. It’s a celebration of resilience and standing together when things feel uncertain.
The production ties everything together seamlessly. There’s a polish to the sound, but it never strips away the band’s raw energy. It captures the immediacy of a live performance while giving the track a broader, more cinematic scope.
From start to finish, ‘Always’ feels like a statement of intent. It’s confident, cohesive, and driven by a clear sense of purpose.
