South African Rock Singer-Songwriter Ross Harding is back with ‘Fire Away’, the spirited second single from his upcoming EP ‘Chapter II’. Ross shares that this gritty riff-laden masterwork is all about “diving into chaos headfirst, in order to come out the other side changed, and for the greater good.”Recorded at Audio Nebula Studios, Ross worked hard during 2022 with producer Byron Muller to bring to live a commanding track reminiscent of the classic rock, grunge & blues artists of the past; potently fuelled by a blues-rooted consciousness that’s emotive, moving, and original. Mixed by Byron Muller and mastered by Rogan Kelsey.
Ross Harding is a Rock Singer-Songwriter from Johannesburg, South Africa. As a songwriter and performing artist, he personifies rich, versatile vocal abilities with expert guitar knowledge, and has gained global industry recognition for his command of blues and rock music, reminiscent of the classic rock, grunge & blues artists of the past. “And ultimately, that’s what Harding has done so well on his debut solo EP – he’s found himself a sound that’s full of emotion, passion and angst, but more importantly, one that celebrates the memory of rock music. “ (TEXX & THE CITY 2022).
In 2017 Harding formed the blues rock band, BLACK HARBOUR BLUES, and has made local and international progress performing, touring, and recording with the band. Notable performances include a headline slot at the Drakensberg’s WHITE MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL, Main Stage at 2014’s RAMFEST with Biffy Clyro, Trivium, Fouls and Killswitch Engage, countless local festivals, an acoustic international tour to Italy, and many independent shows throughout South Africa.
In 2018 Harding and Hughes hosted a sold out “HOUSE OF BLUES” show, which included some of South Africa’s top blues musicians – Andre Kriel (Black Cat Bones), Pepi Dimevski (Gunshot Blue), Richard Bruyns and others.
Ross Harding has supported major South African artists like DAN PATLANSKY, FOKOFPOLISIEKAR, THE NARROW, and PRIME CIRCLE and is able to enchant all kinds of audiences.
Performing both as a solo acoustic artist and with a band, Harding is able to captivate audiences with his vocal prowess and acoustic guitar accompaniment, while his trio band boasts mastery of the blues, classic rock styles, and original music. His debut solo record, REST & RESURRECTION, was released in early 2022 and has seen local and international recognition, with his follow up EP, called CHAPTER II releasing on 4 November, including his music video for BLACK SUN BLUES that was sponsored by MTN.
Prepare to be blissfully bludgeoned by the blistering rocker that is ‘Fire Away’, the new single from the upcoming EP by Ross Harding entitled Chapter II (due to be released on 4 November). I was truly taken hostage by “Fire Away”, a vein bursting, Blues infused, volcanic slab of smouldering iridescence.
Pictures of Harleys burning rubber down route 66, flannel shirted Seattle elder statesmen throwing guitars about a stage and soul-searching Blues grandmasters waxing poetic at midnight all surged through my mind whilst experiencing this majestic song. With its dynamite chorus and fiery verse “Fire Away” is a radio ready, crowd-pleasing anthem that sizzles with high octane instrumentation and vibrant vocals.
At its core “Fire Away” is a track that traverses the concept of traveling through a labyrinth of chaotic upheaval and emerging stronger for all the challenges faced thereof. “Fire Away” is a prime example of Ross Harding’s extraordinary range; from soulful melodies during the verse to soaring vocals during the chorus it is clear that this man is fraught with vocal prowess.
From its bluesy opening riff through its charging rhythms, sparkling solo and triumphant chorus if “Fire Away” doesn’t garner megalithic success then there is far more wrong with the world today then I already thought there was. Miss this at your peril.
Rock ‘N’ Load couldn’t agree more, Ross is an artist dripping in quality and with his latest work he is showcasing a lifetime honing his craft.