Rumour Den – Part Of The Problem (2026)
With decades in the music industry, vocalist Al Gilmore and guitarist Steve Simms can be noted as seasoned artists brimming with emotion, experience, and a natural camaraderie where Simms’ melodies match Gilmore’s lyrics with absolute ease. Technically beginning in the late 1990s, Rumour Den – the brainchild of Simms and Gilmore – became a “vehicle for the melancholic, dark, reality-infused songs”. In 2001, they released an album, Melancholics Anonymous, but neither was pleased with the album, with “too many compromises and money constraints….”; so, things seemed to stagnate in a way. The thing is, while things slowed down, the passion for music never diminished; hence, we have Rumour Den hitting the soundscape with their singles ‘Sea of Trees’ and ‘Part Of The Problem’.
The second single in the run-up to the album Relapse, ‘Part Of The Problem’ is an immediate draw to the days of Three Days Grace and Seether. Just like those iconic bands, Rumour Den has created a sonic experience with their new single, not just something to be heard. From the opening, you find yourself standing on the precipice of a great sonic whirlpool. It’s as if you are peering into this well of rock music, lined with glittering rocks, tumultuous water, and a sheen that is both inviting and nerve-wracking.
For me, ‘Part Of The Problem’ is a melodic feast of crashing drums, scorching guitars and a bold bass; however, while everything flows in harmony creating that shine on the whirlpool walls, the instruments break across in distinctive colours. The drums a dark brown, the guitar a glistening gold, and the bass a slim black. Each bright and inviting; each brimming with dark intent. With gritty, gruff vocals, Gilmore reminds me of Brad Arnold in one way; in the other, there is a warmer, richer lilt that makes Gilmore stand out. The tone is comforting and gentle, but simultaneously is a little stark and breath-taking.
This is my introduction to Rumour Den, and I have to admit it is quite a refreshing listen, even if the song is about broken relationships and inner conflict. Highly recommended!!
Find out more about Rumour Den on their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Soundcloud and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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