Rival Sons will release their second album of 2023, called Lightbringer, on Friday, October 20th. It will be the follow-up to their Album, Darkfighter, which dropped on June 2nd of this year. Jay Buchanan was kind enough to speak to me about Lightbringer after a grueling summer touring schedule. We had an in-depth conversation about the making of the album and the beautiful songs that fill the album. Jay also shared a few special moments in the studio during the recording of Darkfighter and Lightbringer. Rival Sons will be touring the UK and Europe through November before announcing 2024 tour dates.
I was also fortunate to be able to get a preview of Lightbringer before I spoke with Jay. Just like Darkfighter and their previous albums, it is solid all the way through. The band chemistry is so strong. Scott Holiday, Mike Miley, and Dave Beste are on fire. Jay’s vocals are powerful and moving. The lyrics and music complement each other to allow you to see, hear, and feel the songs.
On the new album, Lightbringer, the improvisational magic of the opening song, Darkfighter, sets the vibe immediately. “Mercy” is a powerful song about breaking the generational cycle of trauma and pain. “Redemption” follows and boy, does it hit you in the feels right away. The music really sets the tone for the story. The next song, “Sweet Life” tears it up. It’s an homage to garage rock and a piece of the musical pie that is Rival Sons. “Before the Fire” is next and about losing it all and having to start over. Lightbringer wraps up with the gorgeous Mosaic. Jay says it had to be the last song on the album because in the end “We’re only here for each other.”
This conversation with Jay is honest and real. Just like the music of Rival Sons. That honesty and realness are what Rock and Roll is. I hope you will give Lightbringer a chance. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to this conversation. Have a great day.