We have featured RISE a few times already, and it’s time that we give them some more attention. Hailing from Liverpool, the talented outfit has, over time, developed a rather eclectic sonic imprint, one that starts from classic rock’n’roll influences and ends in modern electro-pop territories. ‘Dreams’ was a fitting evidence of that, a single that we featured in May last year. Today, we are looking at RISE’s latest single, ‘Always’, a piece that pushes the envelope even further in terms of widening the sonic pool.
Introduced by punchy drums and gritty guitars, the track then leaves space to atmospheric synths and electronic claps, a formula that works well with stayMellow’s anthemic, resonant vocals. Melodies are catchy and approachable, which marks another one of RISE’s winning traits: their mainstream allure. Head honcho Paul Kinley on keyboards and backing vocals completes the lineup, alongside Alex Mahoney on drums and Brian Petch on guitars.
Intrigued by ‘Always’, we caught up with the British group to learn more about their overall artistry and future goals… interview below!
Hey guys, thanks for chatting with us! I have written about the project in the past (including ‘Dreams’), and it’s great to see you pushing forward with confidence. ‘Always’ marks your latest release. Before we dive into any details, are you proud of how the record turned out? Does it fit your artistic vision?
Firstly, Gab, it’s good to catch up again. We really like the feel of ‘Always’; it’s got a slightly higher guitar mix, which the whole band felt was better for this song when it came to mixing. It’s a high-energy track with a slightly raw edge to it. Overall, we think it’s a great track.
Speaking about artistic vision, I appreciate the luscious and expansive rock sound you are going for, a sonic brand that’s perhaps a tad nostalgic, but still very effective. Are there any particular influences behind it? What would you say are some of the artists or bands that have shaped your current taste the most?
We do listen to a huge range of bands, but I know I can speak for the whole of the band when I list artists such as Rush, Genesis, Foreigner, Asia or Journey (there are so many more, but I think you get a feel for our influences)…
Any project making good use of complex and layered arrangements needs a good producer, which is why you have established a fruitful creative relationship with Rob Whiteley. Can Rob be considered the fifth RISEr? Much like George Martin with The Beatles…
100%; I’ve said it before, Rob is our (silent) 5th member; take it from us, he’s a really good guy. We are booked in with him again shortly for more tracks.
Sam and Paul: Are you brothers by any chance? What’s the relationship between the stayMellow and RISE monikers? Are you two the core of the project?
Actually, Sam is my son! He’s running his own project as stayMellow, which he has been doing for a number of years. We needed a singer to step in, and he was the obvious choice. The core of the band is Brian Petch, Alex Mahoney and myself (Paul Kinley), with Sam helping us out when he is available.
Delving deeper into your latest single ‘Always’: what does the song mean to you? Was there a specific idea or inspiration behind it?
The song is about support, friendship, and just being there for each other; we were friends first, then we formed a band: to us, that is the way we view it.
Likewise, how does your creative process unfold, usually? Do you all write together or separately?
I tend to start the ideas, then send them on to the guys for feedback and development. The songs always change when we try different ideas and structures.
From a sonic standpoint, I have noticed that there’s a good amount of electronica in the new track. Is this a direction you are consistently moving towards?
Yes, we have three tracks already recorded for a Summer release, and they use some different techniques and effects, but they still very much sound like RISE.
Lastly, I’d love to know more about your plans. Will 2026 feature more releases from RISE? Perhaps some live shows too?
We are planning on releasing an EP this Summer; three tracks are ready, and we are going back into the studio to record another two. Gigs will follow, but after the EP is released.