Reviews of The Sun Revolutions:

"...When I received an advance copy of The Sun Revolutions by Cavalier King, I threw it on the pile with the rest and didn't give it much thought. Then one night, I decided to separate the professional material, from the homemade efforts of 17 year old metal virtuosos. By default, I put the Cavalier King disc in my CD player and haven't taken it out since. "Cavalier King" is the name of the alter-ego of Chris Taylor. Chris Taylor is a nomad artist and musician who recently established himself in New York City, and produced one of the finest independent recordings in recent memory. The Sun Revolutions is a compilation of alternative rock music that roots itself in smooth melodies, controversial topics, and thought provoking lyrics. Taylor covers a broad spectrum of issues in 37 minutes; from the mundane existence of everyday life, to the emergence, and near self destruction of his alter-ego. Taylor's lyrics are honest and heartfelt. This isn't an album of randomly arranged, substance free songs. The CD starts, "So it came out one day that I don't pray to virgin mothers," if that's any sort of indication. At the same time, this isn't an album where you have to concentrate on the underlying meaning to appreciate it. Every song is radio friendly, and while the musical style is familiar, it doesn't emulate anyone. The CD's sixth track, "The War is On" is probably the most traditional. It's a straight forward song about love and desire. It's also one of the best songs on a CD full of amazing material. Taylor's musicianship and song structuring ability is excellent. The multi-layered tracking makes it hard to believe The Sun Revolutions is a solo effort. If that weren't enough, Taylor also did the artwork in the CD booklet. While it's impossible to reach perfection, Chris Taylor comes close with his first effort. The music is deep and meaningful, and there is not a filler track on the CD.
...The 411: While it’s still early in 2006, the rest of the indie scene has their work cut out for them. The Sun Revolutions is one of the most sincere and addicting albums to hit the shelves in a long time. And it’s easily deserving of my highest rating to date. Final Score: 9.7 "
-Tim Johnson @ 411mania.com

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"Chris Taylor a.k.a. Cavalier King has released his debut album "The Sun Revolutions", and it couldn't be better. Not only is this a very appealing and enjoyable alternative/pop rock album, what makes it even more impressive is that the entire release is completely done by Taylor. With the exception of drums, keyboards, and a few misc. parts on other songs, all of the instrumentals and vocals are done entirely by the Cavalier King. At 10 songs and 37 minutes, "The Sun Revolutions" is a perfect release for fans of this particular breed of music.Taylor isn't blatantly copying any particular band or style on this album, but the music will still feel quite familiar to its listeners. Although every song has a very different feeling, there are typically multiple singers listeners could compare Taylor's work to on every different track. The result is an album that reminds you of a lot of your favorite artists while still managing to bring enough to the table on its own. On some tracks Taylor sounds like a modern Jim Morrison, which will definitely give him some appeal to fans of Morrison's vocal style.
"Renegade" starts things up with an up-tempo track that reminds me a bit of some of Radiohead's work back when they did "The Bends." From there Taylor delves into a variety of song types, from the laid back and acoustic sound work on "The Unprotected" to the harder edged "Champagne & Cocaine." Taylor shows that he isn't afraid to jump in between lighter acoustic songs and more traditional ones, resulting in a very enjoyable album that has enough variety to keep things interesting for the 37 minutes it lasts. And the lyrics add the icing on the cake to "The Sun Revolutions." Cavalier King's debut is the tale of living in a fearful and increasingly dark world, and the lyrics perfectly represent that. Taylor is a great song writer, and it makes the album shine.
"The Sun Revolutions" is a great debut from a very talented individual. Chris Taylor has put his heart and soul into this effort, and it shows. Although listeners will be able to relate his music to many other groups out there right now, this album still has individuality that will leave a memorable impression on anyone that picks it up. Alternative/pop rock fans shouldn't miss this one."

-Chris Dahlberg @ Cosmos Gaming

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“Chris Taylor’s apocalyptic visions of consequential liberation create an introspective and conceptual modern rock masterpiece, a perfect Greek tragedy set to the buzzing staccato guitars of The Clash (“Victory”) and menacing alt-country of Rufus Wainwright (“Angels of Mars”), with a voice that wavers between Morrissey-like quavers (“The Unprotected”) and Jim Morrison’s hollow nihilism (“The Finest Hour”). It is moody, triumphant, and sobering.

And his singular vision, while absorbing these seemingly obvious influences, also gives us a full Monty view of his particular and unique talent.

Telling the story of a failed anti-hero who destroys what he loves while in the process of trying to save it, The Sun Revolutions sacrifices a tortured soul, suffering from Ritalin withdrawals and on the verge of suicide by train (yeah, that’s right, train) to the listener. His romantic heart is cut out and placed, with no hesitation by Taylor, upon the altar of our stereo for us to examine. And in it we find musical and lyrical themes of faith, rebellion, desperation, violence, failure, and a silent, subtle hope, all of which is meticulously crafted and delivered with a relevant and focused passion.

The best part though? You can sing along to it. Like the best songs of Orpheus pining for Eurydice, Taylor’s songs are beautifully melodic, like the angelic “Cavalier King,” unforgettably infectious, even when depressing as hell, like the heavy, thudding “Sun Revolution” and full of dark alt-folk rhythms like “The War Is On.” In short, Chris Taylor gives us everything.

So take heed of this new talent. He knows his music, mythology and owns, completely, his artistic vision and doing so allows him to fearlessly deliver this deceptively subtle musical triumph.”

"Overall, this is a really good CD to rock out to.

There are a few annoying parts, but otherwise if you are looking for something original to turn up really loud this is it. It sort of reminds me of something those uber-cool kids in Empire Records would have blasted — toward the end of the movie, I think. Painter and musician Chris Taylor declares Cavalier King his alter ego. He’s in New York City right now, but seems to have another life in Texas with an underground following. His influences are all over the map, from Bjork to Madonna, David Bowie to Micheal Jackson, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs to Bruce Springsteen, Led Zepplin to Depeche Mode.You get the idea. The CD is only 37 minutes long, but it packs a lot in there.

You may not be able to take it out of your CD player, some of the tunes are so catchy. “Champagne & Cocaine,” “Renegade” and “Sun Revolutions” are wonderful alt-rock anthems complete with key change for the bridge with Taylor letting loose.What feels like a reference to music you would hear before a gunfight about to go down in a Western with the beginning of “Angels of Mars.”

My favorite is “The Unprotected,” again, an anthem-type song that alternates between subtle and letting loose in a U2’s Edge kind of fashion. I live a sterile life, I live a safe life, so I will never feel pain or suffering... I want the real thing, I want the unprotected, I want the consequences, I want the feeling that I am still alive....” are some of the lyrics, which can sum up a lot of frustration until you get to the end, and start wondering if he just wants unprotected sex.

A-"

-Heidi Masek @ Hippopress.com in New Hampshire

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"Once in awhile you get a CD to review that you know nothing about (well quite often with indie bands to be honest) and it is always a sonic adventure to try the music.

Cavalier King or Chris Taylor, as he plays most of the music and sings, is true gem of an album.

Take opener 'Renegade' the best song Franz Ferdinand never wrote. Simply superb, nothing more to add. Or 'Victory' that takes a cool riff and warps it around Taylor's vocals (some similarity to Jeff Buckley in places), a song that would have the dance floor filled with ease.

Plenty of variety as well with 'The Unprotected' adding some much needed acoustic respite in amongst the guitar driven tunes. Only 'Sun Revolution (reprise)' lets the side down but hey even this one is listenable. The sound is spot on and if you only buy one album outside of your normal rock fare I would strongly recommend this one. All hail the Cavalier King!"

-Jason Ritchie @ getreadytorock.com

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"...The Sun Revolutions...is full of alt-pop/rock that at certain points brings to mind a few renowned artists. At various points, Cavalier King brings to mind Jeff Buckley (especially Taylor's vocals on the album opening "Renegade"), Morrissey ("Angels of Mars"), Jonathan Richman ("The Finest Hour"), and even Rufus Wainwright ("Champagne & Cocaine") -- if the latter strummed an electric guitar instead of plunking on a piano. While The Sun Revolutions may have some deep meaning within its lyrics, fans of crafted rock should be able to enjoy it on a purely musical level." -Greg Prato @ Allmusic

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"Cavalier King hits the ground running with the song "Renegade," a song best experienced at top volume due to its blaring guitars and driving drums and bass. Chris Taylor’s alter-ego/most recent project calls for a revolution – hardly new territory for an artist, but with deft strokes he attempts to call others to action with his lush, swaggering voice. However, sometimes the message is lost when the lyrics are overwhelmed by the instrumentation and production. Taylor chooses not to hit his listeners with full force, pulling back at times only to build up again. In "The Unprotected," he professes a desire for something real to let him know he is still alive in such a mundane, artificial world. "The War is On" acts as a revolutionary love song while "Champagne and Cocaine" depicts the debauchery of an impending apocalypse. Adept at each instrument used on the album, Taylor translates his own voice into a rich studio sound. However, it would not be difficult to imagine a solo set with just him and an acoustic guitar. Just give him a listen. At the very least, you can use the tracks "The War is On" or "Champagne and Cocaine" to get that special someone in your life to make out with you."

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Read Pace University Press Interview

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"So elegant it's almost inedible: 5 ribs.

Chris Taylor - who wrote, produced and performed everything except drums and keyboards on this astonishing debut disc in his tiny Brooklyn apartment, not to mention painting all its artwork - uses the alter ego Cavalier King to flawlessly execute these comic-book-type tales ranging in influence from The Smiths and The Strokes on opening and closing cuts "Renegade" and "Victory," respectively, to Jeff Buckley on his namesake number. It's hard to pick highlights from such an excellent album, but "The Unprotected" (which recalls another one-man band, The New Radicals) and "Champagne & Cocaine" are absolute standouts, and the anthemic title track (and its reprise), "Angels of Mars" and "The War Is On" ain't too bad either. Taylor's ability to make even lesser songs like "The Finest Hour" engaging speaks volumes of his talent. "

-David Thornton @ ribmag.com

"Imagine Jim Morrison singing songs written by David Bowie...and you might have some idea of what Cavalier King sounds like. The band is the alter-ego of singer/songwriter Chris Taylor. Chris isn't just another noisy underground art rocker. His songs are classy, classic, and extraordinarily melodic. Although he isn't obviously borrowing or stealing his sound from any particular artists, Taylor's songs sound surprisingly familiar. The Sun Revolutions is a short album clocking in at about 37 minutes...but in that brief amount of time this young man proves that he is a real contender in the world of music. Killer cuts include "Renegade," "The Unprotected," "Cavalier King," "The War Is On," and "Victory." Great stuff...recommended.  (Rating: 5++)"
-Babysue Magazine

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"One listen of The Sun Revolutions and you will be as addicted to Cavalier King (a.k.a. Chris Taylor) as I am. Taylor, who moonlights as a painter, has created an impressive album of sonic works of grandeur. More, please."
-Abby White @ Performing Songwriter
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"It’s so rare to hear an album conceived and performed by one-person sound so much like a full band. I must admit, it’s a little difficult to pin down an album this ambitious, but from the all-out rockers to the strumming ballads, writer/vocalist/guitarist Christopher Taylor wins you over with a heartfelt voice and great music. THE GRADE: A"
-Night Watchman @ Tastes Like Chicken
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“Cavalier King is the one-man band of Chris Taylor. His debut, The Sun Revolutions, is full of lyrically poetic and heart-felt tracks. Upon first listen, it is obvious that Chris is passionate about his music. His strong vocals echo a sense of anguish and despair with lyrics like “as we lay our heads and we gaze upon the stars you’re thinking...this is so insane!,” from “Renegade.” It seems apparent that Taylor’s influences lay heavily on the mystique of Jim Morrison, the tortured soul of Jeff Buckley, and the folk-rock easy listening crowd-pleasing of Van Morrison. Cavalier King’s fervent music cannot be described as boring. The music may not be ground-breaking but its message is something we can all relate to and the music is a sound we are all familiar with. Sometimes, familiarity is comforting and easy listening is just what we all need on rainy days. Taylor deserves a lot of credit, as this album was recorded in his small Brooklyn studio, proving he is talented, creative and passionate enough to be able to churn out a solid album all by his lonesome.”

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"A quick search of "Cavalier King" turns up multiple hits on King Charles Spaniels—named for the favored toy breed of Charles II, the Cavalier king. Charles II, you may remember, reclaimed the throne of England after the republic of Oliver Cromwell, but enough of the history lesson. The 21st century Cavalier King is the heroic alter ego of musician/painter Chris Taylor, and he’s out to reclaim something as well. The Sun Revolutions, a concept album of sorts, brings Taylor’s battle with religious dogma, industry and mediocrity to the forefront with equal parts ego and optimism. A secular humanist, he boldly announces that "[he] don’t pray to virgin mothers," preferring to search for a new awareness; with turns alternately apologetic, apoplectic and existentially angsty—accompanied by a modern rock sound. "Champagne & Cocaine" is an eat-drink-be-merry-before-we-die ode. The finest track is "The Finest Hour," our hero’s rallying cry. While the latter half of the album turns somber and introspective, Taylor closes with "Victory," where he vows to fight on despite all odds. His deft musicianship is likely to win him a legion of followers."
-Mike Dressel @ Altar Magazine

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“Equally inspired by classic U2 and Jeff Buckley as well as the garage rock attitude of the Strokes, New York City’s Cavalier King (aka Chris Taylor) is a musical renaissance man. With the exception of a few additional players, Taylor recorded his debut, The Sun Revolutions, entirely on his own in his Brooklyn apartment.

Despite being recorded in a tiny apartment, The Sun Revolutions has a full, plump sound. The first few songs on the record take a page out of the Strokes songbook, stressing speed, fury and rawness. But it’s not all New York new wave and Lou reed worship; “The Unprotected” is reminiscent of Mr. Grace himself Jeff Buckley while “The War is On” sounds like Canadian Rufus Wainwright.

The second half of The Sun Revolutions loses it’s way slightly, forgoing the rawness that characterized the first part of the album for a more laid-back attack. That’s not to say the record loses its edge, the song “Champagne and Cocaine” contains as much or more bite than any of the songs on The Sun Revolutions. But cuts like “the Finest Hour” and “Sun Revolution (reprise)” halt the album’s flow. They’re not bad tracks, it just would have been more favourable to spread them out. Regardless, the last song on the album, “Victory,” makes up for many misgivings by ending the record on a hard rocking highpoint.

Strong cuts: “Victory,” “The Sun Revolution” (not the reprise version), “Angels of Mars,” and “Champagne and Cocaine.”

-Trent McMartin Feb 17  @ monstersandcritics.com

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“Painter/musician Chris Taylor – aka the Cavalier King (see "Lizard King") – has developed thick skin since he chucked his pretty Arizona desert paintings and humped into NYC in September 2001. Imagine the poetry of Jim Morrison delivered by your favorite bleeding-heart Brit vocalists (Taylor at times conjures a spitting vocal image of Edwyn

Collins, Morrissey, and Thom Yorke). Musically, this is a workable compound resembling the best of Collins, The Smiths, and/or The Verve. Lyrically, existential disillusion bumps awkwardly into love on the way to clarity: "I contemplate the fate of us and feel your eyelash brush my cheek/someday we'll find the air to breathe and kill the pulse of industry." What at first seems a hefty hunk to digest becomes conceivable and even palatable with each listen. Like a glass of really good Scotch, The Sun Revolutions' brilliance permeates with each taste.”

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"By and large, Cavalier King is Chris Taylor. He uses a wide-ranging pastiche of "alternative" sounds of the past 25 years to fuel his music. It's easy to pick out bits and pieces of the Mekons, U2, Blondie, Radiohead and many more. Which is fine by me. The more important question is how well Taylor uses this conglomeration of ideas to fully express his own.

Damned well, I'd say. He throws so much into each song that it would be really hard to say he's ripping anyone off in particular. All music is an expression of what has come before, and while Cavalier King may stretch that maxim slightly, the results are excellent.

The key is in the arrangements. This stuff could be some sort of bizarre mess, and it's not. Rather, what's here is a collection of grandiose, slightly off-kilter anthems. not exactly warped, but not normal, either.

-aidabet.com

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CD REVIEW: Cavalier King's debut a modern classic

(U-WIRE) PITTSBURGH -- "This was a tough review to write -- not for lack of material, but because "The Sun Revolutions" is one of the most deceptively complex albums to be released in quite some time. With layer upon layer of musical styles and homage, Cavalier King's debut album harkens back to basic musical precepts like early punk, modern rock and classic rock.

So who does Cavalier King rock like? Who are its influences? Vocally, Christopher Taylor smoothly serenades with a deep droning voice that reminds the listener of such distinctive voices as Jim Morrison or The Killer's front man Brandon Flowers.

Musically, the band is a tight act comprised of Taylor's friends, adding its driving rock sound that is part punk, part rock and part coffeehouse-songwriter chic. But this album lacks the nihilism of punk, the blandness of rock and the corny egomania of the singer-songwriter, which creates a brash amalgamation that is something special.

Cavalier King is the band created from Taylor's experiences playing in Brooklyn and New York City's East Village. His songs have a lyrical presence that is reminiscent of the old folkies of the 1960s New York scene that gave rise to legends like Bob Dylan, Ron Sexsmith and Paul Simon.

Taylor has a lyrical maturity, speaking through his poetry with great urgency and hope for a future life he is ready to face. On the album's first single, "The Unprotected," Taylor sings: "Give me the suffering/ Give me the bleeding/ I'll take the pain and turn it into ecstasy/ I have to face the fear/ That I may die here/Die never having really lived for anything."

But musically, this is far from a folk effort. With high-octane solos using a sustained tone reminiscent of U2's The Edge and strong, steady power guitars, the songs have an energy far surpassing anything out of the Greenwich Village sect.

"Angels of Mars" is a low-swinging track that starts out with some Latin flavor but maintains the Euro-pop intensity that defines a lot of the sound here. Taylor could have used some better production to pull off this one, with perhaps the addition of some flamenco-style guitar, or a trumpet. Unfortunately, debut albums are often victim to low-grade production.

Remember the comparison of Taylor's raspy tone to the razor's edge vocals of Jim Morrison? Cavalier King has an end-of-the-world lament to battle The Doors' classic "The End."

On "Champagne and Cocaine," Taylor states that he wants to do it big before "the world goes up in flames," a sentiment conveyed verbatim by Morrison on The Doors' retrospective "In Concert" album, released and remastered in 1991. Taylor even starts the brooding ballad "The Finest Hour" with the words, "This is the end." It's safe to say he is channeling Morrison vocally on this album's more romance-oriented numbers.

While "The Sun Revolutions" is an enjoyable album from start to finish and the music keeps the listener guessing all the way through, Taylor would have been well served to include a few more catchy hooks or sing-along tracks to add to the powerful and entertaining tunes he has here already. The latter tracks on the album find Taylor retreating into formulaic territory, relying on his lyrics and intriguing voice to support those songs that are somewhat muddled and weak musically.

But when this album is on, it is really on, producing an energy that is infectious and will leave you singing long after the last track has ended. It would be simple to classify Taylor and his band as just another of the mid-tempo, Eurotrash flock, but their sound goes a lot deeper.

By John Steele

The Pitt News (U. Pittsburgh) 04/17/2006