DARE – Arc Of The Dawn (Reissue 2023) *HQ*

Anything with the “DARE” name attached to it is generally something from the top draw and guess what? “Arc Of The Dawn” is no exception. In 2009 Darren Wharton & Co. returned with this CD, a more melodic laid back effort incorporating some traditional Celtic and Welsh touches but offering all the elements which make for a classic DARE album. It is this diversity in sound that makes DARE so unique, it is the mixture that DARE fans love and enjoy.
Now “Arc Of The Dawn” is getting a 2023 reissue available on digital lossless for the first time.
What a wonderful heartfelt opener “Dublin” is, sang with such passion from Wharton this turns the hairs on your neck with its Irish tones and textured guitar work. Another track that needs special mention is the haunting “King of Spades” with more great vocals and layered guitar, one of many highlights.

One thing that did took fans by surprise is the reworking of Thin Lizzy’s “Emerald” – usually this would be a ‘no-no’ as the legacy should be left alone but on this occasion all is forgiven due to the respect shown in this slowed down semi acoustic version which I hasten to add has the best guitar solo on the whole album from Richard Dews.

The effort and thought that has gone into this album and all the songs is one that the group should be proud of. “Kiss The Rain” and “Shelter In The Storm” again highlight the songwriting abilities of Dare with a nod to all things Ireland running through the core of this well produced and executed album.
This is uplifting, intimate yet at times haunting and addicting to listen to. A softer, relaxing side of Dare, with its quality intact.
Highly Recommended

01 – Dublin
02 – Shelter in the Storm
03 – Follow the River
04 – King of Spades
05 – I Will Return
06 – Emerald
07 – When
08 – Still Waiting
09 – Kiss the Rain
10 – Remember
11 – Circles

Darren Wharton (vocals, keyboards)
Richie Dews (guitar, bass)
Kevin Whitehead (drums)

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