Ruby Topaz, a band with roots stretching back almost four decades, has been a significant player in the rock scene since the early recordings of guitarist and vocalist Mark Bram. With heavy influences from Led Zeppelin, Queen, and the broader spectrum of guitar rock, the band earned numerous accolades in the 80s and early 90s for their distinct sound and Bram’s extraordinary guitar skills.
In 2023, Ruby Topaz released Rabbit Hole, an album of all-new songs that showcased their evolving style while staying true to their glam rock roots. Building on this momentum, they have now unveiled Ruby Topaz Again 23rd Anniversary Remaster, a comprehensive collection that spans their entire career. This anniversary album breathes new life into their eleven releases, offering a high-quality digital remaster that merges retro glam rock vibes with modern production techniques.
Listeners diving into Ruby Topaz Again can expect a rich tapestry of sounds. Mark Bram describes it best: “We have the glam and theatrics of Cooper and Bowie, the sophisticated rock of Queen, the power and urgency of early Zeppelin, with the melodic prowess of early Beatles.” This blend of influences ensures that both longtime fans and new listeners will find something to love in the remastered tracks.
The band’s recent releases, including Rabbit Hole and the anniversary remaster, continue to capture the essence of their influences while exploring new sonic territories. Fans of iconic bands like Queen, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles will appreciate the familiar yet fresh sound, while guitar enthusiasts will undoubtedly recognize Bram’s virtuosity. With the resurgence of 80s music trends among younger generations, Ruby Topaz is poised to gain new fans, bolstered by their diverse style and presence on platforms like YouTube.
Ruby Topaz’s music is a captivating blend of pop, rock, glam, metal, blues, and fusion, once described by a critic as ‘subtly savage melodic metal.’ Their style is difficult to categorize, reflecting a wide range of influences from The Beatles and The Monkees to The Who, Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Frank Zappa, and The Mahavishnu Orchestra. The band’s name was born from a playful conversation about birthstones, leading to the glamorous moniker that has become synonymous with their unique sound.
The band’s rich history includes notable achievements such as their single “Why/The Sack,” which gained international success and airplay in Europe. Ruby Topaz has performed in iconic venues like CBGB’s, Gildersleeves, and L’Amour’s in New York, and has been an integral part of the Rhode Island music scene. Mark Bram’s contributions extend beyond music; he co-wrote ‘A Piece of Our Hearts’ for a project to feed the homeless in Rhode Island and is a Grandmaster of the Lee Wah Yook Qi Quan system of internal Chinese martial arts.
The culmination of their extensive recording history led to the creation of Rabbit Hole in 2022. This album not only reflects the evolution of Mark and Katya’s relationship but also Bram’s dedication to perfecting their sound, with mastering by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios. During the pandemic, Bram reconnected with Chris Hallam, an “honorary” member of the band, who continues to contribute to Ruby Topaz’s vibrant musical career.
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