Richard Dawson's "The Ruby Cord" is the thrilling conclusion to a trilogy that began with "Peasant" in 2017 and continued with "2020" in 2019. This ambitious art rock album, released on November 18, 2022, via Weird World, is a testament to Dawson's unique songwriting prowess and his ability to create intricate, immersive worlds. Spanning seven tracks and over an hour and twenty minutes, "The Ruby Cord" invites listeners into an augmented reality where the boundaries between history, ethics, and the physical world blur and shift.
Set in a future where social norms have evolved into something both fantastical and unsettling, the album explores themes of humanity's place in an ever-changing world. Each of the seven tracks—from the enigmatic "The Hermit" to the evocative "Horse and Rider"—offers a glimpse into this augmented reality, where the familiar and the surreal coexist. Dawson's distinctive voice and the album's rich instrumentation create a sonic landscape that is as captivating as it is thought-provoking.
"The Ruby Cord" is not just another album; it's a journey through a world meticulously crafted by Richard Dawson. With its esoteric lyrics and complex compositions, the album challenges listeners to engage with its themes on multiple levels. Whether you're a longtime fan of Dawson's work or a newcomer to his unique brand of art rock, "The Ruby Cord" promises an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply satisfying.