RØRY’s ‘RESTORATION’ isn’t just an album; it’s an experience - raw, cathartic, and unapologetically honest. It’s the sonic equivalent of free therapy, guiding those who dare to dream through the rubble of life’s darkest times and into the light of self-determination. Goosebumps are a given. By the time the final track fades out, listeners are left with a sense of empowerment, as though they've been handed the tools to face their own challenges head-on.
The opener, ‘if pain could talk, what would it say’, kicks things off with a tension-building soundscape that’s soon shattered by RØRY’s commanding voice. It’s a moment of pure conviction, carried by a surge of passion that refuses to be ignored. With the line “this is the start of your story”, she throws down a gauntlet, challenging listeners to press on. ‘In the Bible’ follows with an unsettling, chilling start, contrasting with lyrics that balance heartbreak and hope in equal measure. It’s poetic, impactful, and hard to shake. Then there’s ‘WOLVES,’ which leans into the pain with its gentle guitar and stirring reflections on loss, a track fuelled by vulnerability that lands like a quiet gut punch.
On ‘hold on,’ rhythmic verses deliver a profound message to her past self, made even more poignant by the inclusion of Roxanne Emery - her former alias - adding a deeply personal layer to the acoustic-driven track. After a pivotal moment in the album and RØRY’s journey, ‘BLOSSOM’ follows, taking the concept of growth and transforms it into an invigorating and uplifting anthem. The track's gradual build mirrors the process of healing, culminating in a tender, piano-led outro that feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s a celebration of resilience and moving forward, leaving listeners with a sense of courage and renewal.
Softer, more introspective tracks like ‘Sherlock Holmes’ might have witty lyrical references to an illustrious detective, but the main theme is filled with undercurrents of trauma and unresolved conflicts. With ‘One Drink Away’ also pairing a delicate acoustic melody with a poignant theme, offering a reflective yet inspirational take on breaking free from destructive cycles. In contrast, RØRY’s anger burns brightest in tracks like ‘MORALITY $UICIDE.’ This is where her distaste for the state of the world is laid bare. The rapped bridge is hard-hitting, tearing through the track like a lightning bolt in a storm. It’s not subtle, and it doesn’t need to be.
As the album nears its end, RØRY delivers ‘SORRY I’M LATE,’ a burst of positivity and high-energy motivation that’s as infectious as it is inspiring. With its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics, this track serves as a reminder that even amidst chaos, there’s always room for faith and resilience. And then there’s ‘The Atheist,’ the kind of closer that doesn’t just pull at the heartstrings—it yanks them. With its dissonant acoustic strumming and a raw intimate dialogue outro, it’s an anthemic war cry against toxic and harmful relationships, a hauntingly beautiful finale to an emotional journey.
‘RESTORATION’ is a triumphant debut that puts RØRY’s vulnerability and strength on full display. Her unapologetic authenticity, paired with clever lyrics and dynamic soundscapes, makes this a record that demands attention. If this is the start of her story, RØRY has set an impressively high bar and left us eager for whatever comes next.
'RESTORATION' will be released on January 31st via SADCØRE Records.
Words: Beth Oakley
Photo: Derek Bremner
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