Since their debut full length CD “Wonderland” in May 2006, Forgive Durden has toured, taken a break, and lost all but one member. Finally, they have released a new album and are on tour now (with a slightly different lineup).
The new album, “Razia’s Shadow: A Musical,” is not like the music made by most indie rock bands these days. The album is in the form of a musical: telling a story, complete with narratives. It took Forgive Durden front man Thomas Dutton a year to write and record “Razia’s Shadow,” and after listening to it, you can see why. Along with the elaborate storyline, the tracks are accompanied by a nearly 30-piece orchestra and countless guest appearances. Among these guest singers are Max Bemis (Say Anything), Chris Conley (Saves the Day), Danny Stevens (The Audition), Dan Young (This Providence), Brendon Urie (Panic at the Disco), Greta Salpeter (The Hush Sound), Nic Newsham (Gatsbys American Dream) and Shawn Harris (The Matches).
“Razia’s Shadow” tells the story of a gifted man that believes he can change the world but feels that his talents are not being recognized by anyone but the woman he loves. In his frustration, he makes a rash decision that tears the world into a division of darkness and light. For a century the world remains divided. Among those living in darkness were brothers Pallis and Adakias. Pallis was heir to the throne and Adakias was a romantic dreamer. He believed he was the one that was meant to fulfill the prophecy to reunite the world. Against his brother’s wishes, Adakias goes into the light and finds true love. But nothing is ever that easy; his love was a princess and of course the king would not approve. From there, things rollercoaster up and down, but are still accompanied by beautiful melodies.
It ends with a wonderful parting message: “Live for your love everyday.” And don’t forget, this entire story is set to music that matches the tone of the tales as they enfold.
For a loose comparison, think back to the days of rock operas. Think The Who’s “Quadrophenia.” But as so eloquently stated, “Razia’s Shadow” is a musical, so think “Quadrophenia” mixed with “Man of La Mancha.” There is just something about epic sagas put to music that you could picture played out on a stage or a movie screen that makes it catchier than an annoying pop song. Filled with metaphors, deep meaning, love, regret, destiny, death and ridiculously amazing music, “Razia’s Shadow” seems to be the whole package. It also has a clever storyline that pulls you in with characters you can relate to and even dream along with. After all, “Don’t you ever feel that you’ve been destined for something bigger than your skin?”
If I am giving it a rating, it is somewhere around ten stars. Four thumbs up. This album has blown my mind, and I do not mind.
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