UK alt-rock outfit The Ragged Flags are doubling down this year with their ambitious double release Projections / Reflections, dropping September 1st, 2025. Known for their genre-hopping blend of rock, folk, and indie textures, the band, James Goodwin (vocals, guitars), Mark Aldworth (lead guitar), Chris Edwards-Dewey (bass, banjo), and Paul Whibley (drums), decided not to compromise when split creative visions emerged. Instead, they delivered two separate albums: Projections, a fiery, full-throttle rock record, and Reflections, its stripped-back acoustic counterpart. Together, they showcase the Ragged Flags’ versatility in demonstrating how power and intimacy can thrive side by side.
Projections wastes no time turning up the heat, and “All the Birds” sets the tone perfectly. With jangly percussion, vibrant guitars, and thumping beats, the track bursts with energy as Goodwin sings with soaring ease. A female guest vocalist joins in, Melanie Moffatt, a nod to Goodwin and Whibley’s former Echotone days, turning the piece into a tender, conversational duet. It’s like two lovers singing to each other.
By the time “Ever Yours, Evermore” rolls in, the band broadens its sonic palette with horns, layered over pummeling drums and a lush instrumental build. Goodwin sings with unflinching sincerity, his voice brimming with hope and devotion. It came out more anthemic and heartfelt, striking that sweet spot between stadium-sized and soul-baring.
Toward the latter half, “Crawl Across the Ceiling” takes a gentler approach at first, built on soft, steady drums, sparkly percussion, and gentle guitars. Then, almost like a gear shift, the beats march faster and his voice trails high up, like he is climbing up. He promises he would “crawl across the ceiling” for love.
All told, Projections is a jubilant rock statement, punchy, passionate, and brimming with Ragged Flags’ trademark energy. It’s the sound of a band fully leaning into their fire.
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Review by: Naomi Joan