December 15th, 2023: Andre Avanessian review of Daimon's title track "New Creation"
Overall Impression:
Daimon Price's thoroughly absorbing "New Creation" emerges as a profound alternative gospel track, weaving a tapestry of introspection and faith in a way that speaks directly to a listener's soul. The lyrics delve into the human struggle with doubt, the quest for truth, and the transformative power of spiritual awakening. Against an alternative-styled creative background, the song invites listeners on a contemplative journey, exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the profound personal transformation that accompanies a newfound spiritual understanding, resulting in a poignant and soul-stirring listening experience that bears both substance and thematic depth. With its solid arrangement, excellent performances, and deep spiritual resonance, "New Creation" proves itself to be an irrefutably moving and thought-provoking listening experience through and through.
Strongest Point(s):
The opening lines of "New Creation" lay the foundation for the lyrical exploration, grappling with questions and the cacophony of conflicting voices. Daimon reflects on the challenge of discerning truth amid a world of compromise and skepticism. The use of the metaphorical "tales" and "sources compromising" suggests a sense of disillusionment, echoing the universal struggle to navigate a sea of conflicting ideologies. The verses evolve into a confession of personal doubt, where Daimon acknowledges being one among many who entertained speculation and disbelief. The lyrics speak to the universal experience of grappling with faith and skepticism, a journey marked by trials and tribulations. This is a narrative that many can relate to, capturing the human struggle to reconcile belief with the uncertainties of life. With lyrics as profound as the ones found in "New Creation", a very specific type of vocal performance is required in order to draw out the intricate details and nuances found within them, and thankfully Daimon's hushed and understated vocal style provides an introspective and intimate performance that manages to embody the very essence of the tracks character and sense of purpose perfectly, resulting in a thoroughly relatable and undeniably graceful performance that draws you in immediately. In conclusion, "New Creation" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey through doubt, faith, and spiritual rebirth. The lyrics navigate the complexities of belief, inviting listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and find solace in the transformative power of faith.
Target Audience Appeal
"New Creation" is an engaging piece of gospel-inspired alternative and I'm sure fans of the genre will strongly connect with it.
Artist target suggestions:
Eric Church, Phil Wickham, David Crowder Band, The Cure, David Gray, Paolo Nutini, Ryan Adams, Ben Howard, The Verve, Bryan Adams, Radiohead
About The Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.
May 1st, 2023: Andre Avanessian review's all 3 versions of Daimon's powerful ballad. "Forgive In Your Name."
Overall Impression:
With its meaningful performances and passion-infused writing, Daimon Price's endearing "Forgive In Your Name" proves itself to be both a deeply soul-reaching and heart-filled listening experience that combines a profound feeling of purpose with a towering sense of conviction. Helped in great part by Daimon's relatable and engaging vocal presence, the ballad-esque nature of the track is welcoming in a way that not only feels undeniably wholesome, but loving in equal measure - combine this with the memorable melodic currents that flow seamlessly throughout the track and you get a worthwhile listening experience that will reach the hearts of many a listener.
I'd also like to make a note of Daimon's two other versions of "Forgive In Your Name", an acoustic and worship version to be precise. Not only do these two other versions help present the track in a new light thanks to their slightly differing tones, but they help to clearly showcase Daimon's versatility as both a songwriter and arranger.
Each version brings something slightly different to the table and as a result, they contain specific qualities that help to subtly change the perspective of the song, for instance, the intimate and more mellow nature of the acoustic version contrasts brilliantly with the more fleshed-out and animated nature of this particular version, whereas the worship version opts for a more simplistic and restrained arrangement in order to give the lyrics and vocals even more chance to breathe, thus allowing them even more room to explore the song's themes in finer, more acute detail.
Strongest Point(s):
Brilliantly performed, you can certainly feel the conviction in Daimon Price's vocal performance and his understated vocal style alongside its rich timbral qualities make for an engaging central point for listeners to firmly hook onto. Not only does Daimon infuse both gracefulness and delicacy into his lyrics, helping to heighten their effectiveness tenfold, but his deft use of dynamics ensures that certain aspects of the lyrics themselves are highlighted in a way that makes you take notice. The arrangement is effective and makes great use of its layered instrumental parts to create a rich textural bed for Daimon to work his magic over and when you factor in the polished production and memorable nature of the song's many compelling hooks, you end up with a piece of writing that feels well-rounded and most definitely well-crafted.
Target Audience Appeal:
"Forgive In Your Name" is a solid Christian-influenced track in the singer/songwriter style and I'm sure lovers of the genre will find it to be a touching listening experience.
Artist target suggestions:
David Crowder Band, Chris Tomlin, Lincoln Brewster, John Lennon, George Harrison, David Gray, Neal Carpenter, Aaron Shust, Shawn McDonald, Paolo Nutini, Ben Howard, Brandon Heath, Matthew West
About The Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.
January 14, 2023: Zachary Larson reviews Daimon's dynatic cover of the Seven Nations song "Our Day Will Come!"
Overall Impression: Lehigh Valley-based Daimon Price impresses with his cover of “Our Day Will Come.” Originally by Rock band Seven Nations, “Our Day Will Come” is a highly energized tune powered by a Celtic and Alternative Rock sound. Lyrically, it can be interpreted as being faith-based, but it avoids overtly religious phrasing and can be appreciated by a more general audience. The fiddle playing in Price's version, by multi award winning violinist NYK VAN WYKE, totally grabs attention and becomes a defining feature of the song. It emphasizes the driving nature of the tune, while the acoustic guitar and bass groove underneath. Price sings with a cool, gravely tone. He nails the melodies, and gives the song a unique vocal edge that sets it apart. Price has been careful to stay true to the original and only peppers the song with his own voice and sound. The end result is a polished and highly enjoyable version of “Our Day Will Come” that holds up well next to the original.
Strongest Point(s): There are plenty of strong points with this version of “Our Day Will Come.” Daimon Price has brought on some fine talent, and has even made the entire project a family affair. Played by his son Jareth, the bass guitar work grooves very well and adds an indispensable fullness to the sound. Price's vocals have a great Alternative Rock sound, and he brings a muted enthusiasm that is very effective.
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Christian Rock, Celtic Rock, and Alternative Rock will enjoy this cover of “Our Day Will Come” by Daimon Price.
Artist target suggestions: Chris Tomlin, Collective Soul, Bubba Chambers, David Crowder Band, Elevation Worship, Richard Allen McGee, Larry Dean Madden, Pauper's Crown, Casting Crowns, Dave Matthews Band, Seven Nations, Jars of Clay, For King & Country
About The Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional guitarist in New York City. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured the world as a classical chamber musician, onboard cruise lines, and with several Broadway musicals. His recorded work spans across Classical, Pop, and Experimental music. His arrangements are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.