Trauma band photo

DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION Unleashes 'Trauma' – A Sonic Odyssey of Resilience

By Jason •
Get ready for a deep dive into emotional landscapes as DBA returns with their sixth studio album.

The heavyweights of melodic rock, DOWNES BRAIDE ASSOCIATION (DBA), are set to unleash their latest sonic creation, 'Trauma', on September 25 via Cherry Red Records. This sixth studio offering promises to revitalize the expansive soundscape that fans have come to cherish, melding long-form compositions with the epic melodic rock style that Geoff Downes and Chris Braide have perfected over the years.

The journey of 'Trauma' began along the serene banks of the River Thames in Richmond, traveling through the vibrant pulse of Los Angeles, before fully realizing its identity in the lush countryside of Gloucestershire and South Wales. It’s a fitting narrative for an album anchored in resilience, echoing the long and winding path it took to reach its final form.

Chris Braide articulates the essence of 'Trauma' eloquently, stating, "These songs emerged from the cracks. 'Trauma' is about the ghosts we inherit, the wounds we hide, and the light that still finds its way through. This isn’t a record of surrender; it’s about survival. It’s about wearing your scars with pride, standing tall against adversity, and recognizing that kindness and fortitude ultimately outlast the darkness." This powerful sentiment underscores the album's overarching theme.

Geoff Downes echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the creative synergy between him and Braide: "Working on 'Trauma' has been an inspirational journey. We've delved into the depths of our emotions, contrasting darkness with light. Our track 'Lake Of Memories' serves as a prime example, blending classical bombast with an upbeat techno pulse. This album is a testament to our unique sound, and we can’t wait for you to experience the 'traumatic' DBA journey!"

The first single, 'Wonderland', embodies themes of nostalgia and hope, as Braide explains, "It tackles the psychological friction of breaking free from rigid social structures. It's a tribute to resilience, but also a confrontation with the survivor’s guilt that accompanies such a drastic change. Walking away from the past is both a death and a rebirth, and the ghosts of that old reality linger on." This track is not just a song; it’s a powerful exploration of personal liberation.

With 'Trauma', DBA welcomes back their familiar lineup of Dave Bainbridge (guitars), Andy Hodge (bass), and Ash Soan (drums), alongside notable guest contributors like Marc Almond and Emmi. The late David Longdon's flute performances from 2018 sessions add a haunting depth, while original poems from Andy Partridge and others enrich the album's lyrical tapestry. The cover art, crafted by the talented Roger, encapsulates the album's essence—striking yet hopeful, echoing the journey of the music within.