Historical Heavy Metal Group, Forlorn Hope, Return with ‘Valour – Part 1’ and Lead Track ‘Down In Flames’
‘Down in Flames’ is the new single from Forlorn Hope and is based on the real life story of Flight Lieutenant James Brindley Nicolson during the Battle of Britain in World War II. Accompanied by a visually striking lyric video, the song features on the group’s upcoming EP, ‘Valour – Part I’, released on August 30th 2024.
The ‘Valour – Part I’ EP is the first part of ‘Valour’, the second full-length album from Forlorn Hope. ‘Valour’ tells the stories of fifteen Victoria Cross winning actions from Crimea to the Second World War; stories of sacrifice, determination and derring do on land, sea and in the air. It is a saga in equal parts thrilling, horrific and heart-breaking that explores not just the exploits of these extraordinary men, but the myriad and diverse conflicts in which they fought.
‘Down in Flames’ is a blazing, full-throttle anthem that tells the story of Flight Lieutenant James Brindley Nicolson’s actions during the Battle of Britain, which earned him the only Victoria Cross awarded to Fighter Command during the Second World War. On 16 August 1940, at the height of the Battle of Britain, James Brindley Nicolson became the only Fighter Command pilot to earn the Victoria Cross in the Second World War; refusing to abandon his burning Hawker Hurricane until he had shot down the Messerschmitt below him.
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The stories featured on the upcoming EP and covered by the ‘Valour’ project overall, are incredibly moving stories. Stories that immediately captured the attention and passion of dedicated band researcher, vocalist and lyricist Chris Simpson, and the band sought to tell them as faithfully as possible, in their own unique way, so as to give these incredible tales of bravery the full attention they deserve. From lesser known actions to some of the most iconic actions in the history of the award, Forlorn Hope wanted to bring these tales into the public consciousness. From tragic sacrifice, selfless bravery and bold derring-do, on land, at sea and in the air; the scope of the ‘Valour’ project covers more than a century of conflict spanning the globe and brings the lesser known stories to light, whilst approaching already well known tales with a fresh angle.
‘Valour – Part I’ was recorded and produced at Whitewood Studios in Liverpool, by engineer Daniel Woodward, and was mixed and mastered by producer and guitarist (Sellsword) James Stephenson. The album artwork was created by the band’s long time collaborator, artist Mitchell Nolte. The band’s new logo was designed by graphic designer, Mark Sutcliffe. ‘Down In Flames’ lyric video was produced by Very Metal Art.
‘Valour – Part I’ is released on August 30th 2024.
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EP Tracklist:
1. The Fusilier
2. Down in Flames
3. Ulysses, 1915
4. Greater Love Hath No Man
5. The Last Ride
Forlorn Hope is:
Chris Simpson – Vocals, Lyrics, Rhythm Guitars
Alexander Bishop – Lead Guitars, Composition
John Roughley – Bass Guitar
Drums by Danny Kelly