Just a few weeks ago I was singing Harry James Angus’ praises, celebrating his innovative single “I Saw Red,” released through his Struggle With Glory project. Now after hearing the EP with the same name, I’m even more impressed.
To bring you up to speed, I Saw Red is an EP of gospel-jazz tracks inspired by Greek mythology. The music doesn’t just live on the recordings; it’s from the Struggle With Glory show Harry James Angus has showcased at theatres and will soon take to music and arts festivals around the country. This is no ordinary musical project. It’s not delivered as one, and it doesn’t sound like one either.
I Saw Red transports you to a different time, a time when jazz, soul, and blues came together for people in mourning and exultation. “Kill The Priest” has a morbid title, but it feels like a song of praise and positivity. It’s a beacon of light which juxtaposes beautifully with the darker title track. “Struggle With Glory” sounds like an old slave song, sorrowful and full of soul. “He Took The Fire” rounds out the EP, lifting us up just as we began. It’s a slow burner, but when the gospel choir and brass band kicks in you’ll be clapping along.
I Saw Red stands alone as a stellar collection of songs. But it also makes me intrigued about Harry James Angus and his Struggle With Glory show. Something tells me I’d appreciate these incredible songs even more in that context.
The I Saw Red EP is available now. Struggle With Glory will play the following events.
1 March 2018 – Perth Festival, Perth
14 & 15 March 2018 – Adelaide, Adelaide
Image used with permission from Riot House Publicity