Ryan Adams & The Cardinals: Follow The Lights EP

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals
Follow The Lights EP
Lost Highway Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Worth the low price of admission!

Album Review:
Ryan Adams has been walking around with a target on his back for some while now and sometimes his behavior has warranted the criticism but I believe that 2007 has been a good year for Adams and ending it with this Cardinal collaboration EP will do nothing but strengthen that idea. After the very straightforward and consistent Easy Tiger earlier this year Follow The Lights is another small batch of “normal” tunes from Adams. This EP has everything that makes sense and worth checking out from several new songs, a couple Cardinals retakes, and several covers. The title track would have easily fit on Easy Tiger and stands up to anything Adams has put out while the Alice In Chains cover “Down In A Hole” substitutes twang for the rock with surprisingly good results. The best choice of tackling another song again is the Cardinals version of “This Is It” from Adams rock oriented album Rock N Roll [2003] that not only sounds great but shows a glimpse of what that album could have sounded like had Adams stayed the course (Hint: Rerecord the whole thing). I guess we will see if Adams can still deliver anything else before the end of 2007 but this EP is a must for any fan and should gear everyone up for Adams 08’!

Key Tracks: "Follow The Lights", "Down In A Hole", "This Is It [Cardinals Version]"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Patrick Park
Jeff Tweedy
Tim Easton

Ryan Adams: Easy Tiger [Fire Note Review 6/28/07]

Official Ryan Adams Website
Ryan Adams MySpace
Ryan Adams Info [Allmusic]
Lost Highway Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Babyshambles: Shotter's Nation

Babyshambles
Shotter's Nation
Astralwerks Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Some highs & some lows!

Album Review:
We all know the train wreck story of Pete Doherty and his post-Libertines band Babyshambles that includes many rock n’ roll clichés such as fistfights, model girlfriends and a tons of drugs. It is very hard to look past the poperattzi news and get down into the music but with the release of Shotter’s Nation that is exactly what we get to do. Following the same sort of style as the somewhat surprisingly good debut Down In Albion [2005] Doherty hits us with more stories of self-pity and bitterness that let you walk in his shoes for awhile. Where Down In Albion was fairly consistent throughout, Shotter’s Nation has some really solid catchy tracks and then some tracks that just sound like Pete diddling with his guitar. I don’t know if there will ever be an answer to all of Doherty’s life problems and what effect that will have on his music but Shotter’s Nation is just a bit short of some needed focused tweaking that restrains it from totally succeeding. If you are new to the Pete show I would definitely refer you back to The Libertines catalog and let you move forward but if you are well aware of the situation, Shotter’s Nation is not a waste of time and still worth a spin, especially for the tracks that work, because they represent the reason why we still care!

Key Tracks: "Delivery", "Side Of The Road", "Unstookie Titled"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Libertines
The Clash
Madness

Official Babyshambles Website
Babyshambles MySpace
Babyshambles Info [Allmusic]
Astralwerks Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Bettye LaVette: The Scene Of The Crime

Bettye LaVette
The Scene Of The Crime
Anti- Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Southern soul never sounded so good!

Album Review:
It is always great to see the return of a caliber artist like Bettye LaVette. Her successful R&B history dates back to the 60s’ running side by side with some of Motown’s biggest names and now after her 2005 acclaimed comeback release, I've Got My Own Hell To Raise, brought some well-deserved recognition comes her closely autobiographical record, The Scene Of The Crime. What makes this release even more interesting is that LaVette selected the Drive-By Truckers as her backing band giving the album a southern twang and a tremendous structure to emphasize Bettye’s voice, which has not lost a single ounce of power. Most of the tracks minus the original “Before The Money Came (Battle Of Bettye LaVette)” LaVette takes on other artists like Willie Nelson, John Hiatt and Elton John giving each of them a soul spin that keeps the spirit of the song intact but she definitely makes the songs her own. The Scene Of The Crime is just one of those releases that you cherish as you listen along making you proud that you were able to experience Bettye LaVette again in 2007.

Key Tracks: "Before The Money Came", "Take Me Like I Am", "You Don't Know Me At All"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Aretha Franklin
Solomon Burke
The Dynamites

Official Bettye LaVette Website
Bettye LaVette MySpace
Bettye LaVette Info [Allmusic]
Anti- Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Coyote Bones: Gentleman On The Rocks

Coyote Bones
Gentleman On The Rocks
Self-Released/CoCo Art [2007]









Fire Note Says: Omaha's Coyote Bones release stellar debut with some help by the Saddle Creek collective!

Album Review:
After hearing the short two minute opening track “Expire In Style” (complete with a barking dog in the background) you might be thinking that Coyote Bones is a punch drunk bar band ready to take you down a rockin’ country road but make sure not to cast judgment too quickly because Gentleman On The Rocks is a refreshing slice of indie rock. Coyote Bones leaders David Matysiak and Mason Brown are from the disbanded band Jet By Day and they now call Omaha, Nebraska home. Their sound crosses many different genres and can be described as having Elliott Smith type vocals and Wilco song sensibilities all mixed with a “Saddle Creek” vibe. Gentleman On The Rocks really represents a who’s who from Omaha as contributors include members from Now Its Overhead, Bright Eyes, Tilly And The Wall, The Good Life, Desaparecidos, The Faint, and Orenda Fink. With that sort of line up the expectations should be high and Coyote Bones deliver. Gentleman On The Rocks stands up to repeat listens and will easily move into your “do not remove” list very quickly with its infectious style, diverse sound and perfect balance of ballads and rockers!

Key Tracks: "39 Forever", "Living Breathing Demons", "Lightweights Drinking"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Joseph Arthur
Age Rings
The Wrens

Official Coyote Bones Website
Coyote Bones MySpace
Purchase Coyote Bones Album [CD Baby]
CoCo Art

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Wussy: Left For Dead

Wussy
Left For Dead
Shake It Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Sophomore effort avoids slump and continues successful formula of debut!

Album Review:
Wussy are a four-piece indie rock band from Cincinnati that trade off male/female vocals and add in power harmonies to back them up. Left For Dead is the bands sophomore effort and it continues their melodic distorted path with an emphasis on bringing the rock. With the very unique and smooth voice of Ass Pony Chuck Cleaver being balanced by the bluesy powerful vocals of Lisa Walker, Wussy cranks out catchy tunes one after another. The biggest difference from their stellar debut Funeral Dress [2005] and now is that each track has a much tougher punch to it with some added distortion and thundering drum beats. Left For Dead will take you by surprise because after the very pleasant lead off ballad “Trail Of Sadness” you are in for a wake up call on the in your face “Rigor Mortis” that truly sets the real tone on Left For Dead and never backs down. If you were a fan of Wussy’s debut or into the Ass Ponys, Left For Dead is perfect for your taste. It is a solid offering and just gets better with every spin.

Key Tracks: "Trail Of Sadness", "Rigor Mortis", "Melody Ranch"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ass Ponys
Sonic Youth
Heartless Bastards

Official Wussy Website
Wussy MySpace
Wussy Info [Allmusic]
Shake It Records

- Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Wrong Reasons: Bury Your Problems

Wrong Reasons
Bury Your Problems
Self-Released [2007]









Fire Note Says: Scorchin' roots rock out of Providence, RI!

Album Review:
The Wrong Reasons represent everything right about American roots rock. You have interesting stories, solid musicianship, a throaty delivery and a sense that they have nothing to lose – so it all just hangs out. Lead vocalist Joe Fletcher has a very Cash meets Nick Cave snarl to his vocals while the band mixes folk, rockabilly, and country giving Bury Your Problems the raw sound that secures its success. Joe Fletcher is not a new face on the scene and he especially is no stranger to the eastern parts previously playing in The Sinners Club and the heavily touted Deterrents which was with former “Do The Devil” Amazing Royal Crowns frontman Jason “King” Kendall. The Wrong Reasons gives Fletcher his own forum to weave his tales and get things off his chest while providing a solid 45 minutes of entertainment to his listeners. I recommend if you are into any style of roots rock the Wrong Reasons should be on your radar and most definitely Bury Your Problems was created to be seen live with a shot of whiskey in your hand. I am positive it only sounds better that way!

Key Tracks: "Piggy Bank", "Port Of Seven Vices", "Who Makes The Knives?"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Waco Brothers
Johnny Cash
The Blasters

Wrong Reasons MySpace
Purchase Bury Your Problems [CD Baby]

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Soft: Gone Faded

Soft
Gone Faded
Academy Fight Song Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Brooklyn, UK is founded on Soft debut Gone Faded!

Album Review:
Sometimes it takes awhile to get it right and that’s exactly what Soft has done with their debut release Gone Faded. The Brooklyn 5-piece has technically been in existence for 4 years but has spent most of their time in the shadows writing songs and practicing instead of just using trial and error on the stage. After last years release of the Soft EP, buzz has been circling for this bands atmospheric long player and after just one spin you realize that Gone Faded does not disappoint. The album is a mix of shoegaze and lush psychedelic UK sounds similar to The Stone Roses or Charlatans. Soft do a nice job a walking the line between the genres and with their superb layered sprawling guitars each song takes off while retaining an underlying dance beat. Gone Faded is a throwback to a classic UK sound that is straight out of Brooklyn, which gets better and catchier with every play.

Key Tracks: "Droppin", "Higher", "Great Spirit"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Swervedriver
The Stone Roses
The Charlatans

Official Soft Website
Soft MySpace
Academy Fight Song Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Radiohead: In Rainbows

Radiohead
In Rainbows
Self-Released [2007]









Fire Note Says: First album rated on great concept + great music!

Album Review:
On October 10, 2007 the music world as many knew it changed. Radiohead released their seventh album In Rainbows as a digital download completely without the help from anyone. The better part was that downloaders could pay whatever they wanted for it or nothing at all (We paid $5 bucks). Now the mp3 files were at a slightly low 160 bit rate but actually sound pretty good and a full fledge Radiohead discbox package is being released on December 3 complete with vinyl, 2 cds (album & bonus), artwork and a digital download. The actual In Rainbows disc is not supposed to be available in stores until early next year. Rumor has it that the band made anywhere from 6 – 10 million on the opening release. Not bad for opening album sales and a clear sign for established artists that this is an avenue to pursue which already has happened with Madonna breaking away from her label and signing a giant package deal that includes albums and tour with Live Nation and Trent Reznor announcing he is through with his label relationship. There will be a big question mark for new acts how this new concept would work or even considering working under an established artist might make more sense. In Rainbows succeeded because it was Radiohead but the music backs it up. From the beat driven, guitar and clapping children opener “15 Step” to the solid Yorke ballad of “Faust Arp” In Rainbows is what many fans have been wanting for years. It is a real combination of old and new Radiohead meeting in the middle, which is very pleasing to the ear and it simply gets better with each listen. I can only assume that this release will have a ripple effect as time goes on and what a great band and album to make this statement, show faith in their fans, and actually make people feel good about paying money for music again!

Key Tracks: "15 Step", "Faust Arp", "Nude"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Trent Reznor
Madonna
Prince

Official Radiohead Website
Purchase In Rainbows

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Eskimo Joe: Black Fingernails Red Wine

Eskimo Joe
Black Fingernails Red Wine
Rykodisc Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Doesn't get much better from down under!

Album Review:
Eskimo Joe will be a new name to many but the band has a very large following in their native country of Australia. The band’s US debut Black Fingernails Red Wine already spent four weeks at number one last year in Australia and now Eskimo Joe are trying their luck here. Most likely they will not see the same success but it won’t be for a lack of quality because Black Fingernails Red Wine is a very listenable and likeable album. The band has an interesting mix of Coldplay vocals and piano with an Interpol like 80s retro new wave. It may sound a bit confusing but this combination is very catchy on the title track and drives the flow on “New York”. Black Fingernails Red Wine sounds very big and stadium ready but yet connected to its listeners. Eskimo Joe has already opened for The Killers, Modest Mouse, Muse and My Chemical Romance so bringing their music to the States is a natural and worth a spin from beginning to end.

Key Tracks: "New York", "Black Fingernails, Red Wine", "Breaking Up"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Coldplay
Interpol
The Mary Onettes

Official Eskimo Joe Website
Eskimo Joe MySpace
Eskimo Joe Info [Allmusic]
Rykodisc Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Soulsavers: It's Not How Far You Fall, It's The Way You Land

Soulsavers
It's Not How Far You Fall, It's The Way You Land
Columbia Records [2007]










Fire Note Says: Newest collaborator Mark Lanegan will completely save your soul!

Album Review:
If you know anything about Soulsavers debut back in 2003 I would suggest you simply table those thoughts. Production duo Rich Machin and Ian Glover are back with their new release It’s Not How Far You Fall, It’s The Way You Land but it is a completely different offering then their electronic focused past. Simply adding one person to a band can always alter the sound but adding Mark Lanegan (Gutter Twins, Screaming Trees) as your frontman changes Soulsavers direction. It is one thing for an electronic focused group to have guest spots. The Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim, hell even Santana have had success going this route but It’s Not How Far is more than just a guest spot for Lanegan, it is a showcase. He sings on eight of the ten tracks and co-authored five of them. His presence gives Soulsavers a moody, gritty, and raw edge that is perfect for a night drinking straight whiskey versus hanging out on the dance floor. It’s Not How Far is a solid listen and gets better as you take it for multiple spins. Who knows if this collaboration will remain intact for future offerings or if this was just a one time thing but for right now It’s Not How Far is another fine addition to Lanegan’s resume and an album that can put Soulsavers on the map.

Key Tracks: "Revival", "Kingdom Of Rain", "Jesus Of Nothing"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Nick Cave
The Twilight Singers
Muggs

Official Soulsavers Website
Soulsavers MySpace
Soulsavers Info [Allmusic]
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Jimmy Eat World: Chase This Light

Jimmy Eat World
Chase This Light
Tiny Evil/Interscope Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: A closer return to form but still for the masses.

Album Review:
Being tagged an “emo” band has turned out to be a very heavy burden. Many bands that were pinned into this genre have struggled getting credit for expanding their music outside of the genre. Jimmy Eat World is no different because of their early beginnings. If you take another listen to Static Prevails [1996] or Clarity [1999] compared to their breakthrough Bleed American [2001] you can hear the transformation. The issue that happened to Jimmy Eat World was that the mass success of American lost some of their cult following and if you don’t release hits to the masses then who is going to buy your record? Chase This Light tries to rekindle the spirit of earlier works while still having the big power songs that appeal to the radio. Overall it succeeds on both fronts by dropping the somber mood that clouded over Futures [2004] and bringing back the roaring harmonies on tracks like “Big Casino” and “Feeling Lucky”. “Gotta Be Somebody’s Blues" steps back into a more moody place, which should appeal to some of the doubters that Jimmy Eat World has lost all touch. I must add that Chase This Light was executive produced by Butch Vig (Nirvana, Garbage) so to say the album does not have some polish would be a lie. Is it the best thing the band has put out? No, but it is catchy enough that if you were ever a fan Chase This Light will not disappoint – It just might not be on your best releases list for the year.

Key Tracks: "Big Casino", "Let It Happen", "Feeling Lucky"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Plain White T's
Foo Fighters
Fall Out Boy

Official Jimmy Eat World Website
Jimmy Eat World MySpace
Jimmy Eat World Info [Allmusic]
Interscope Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Robert Pollard: Coast To Coast Carpet Of Love / Standard Gargoyle Decisions

Robert Pollard
Coast To Coast Carpet Of Love
Merge Records [2007]








Robert Pollard
Standard Gargoyle Decisions
Merge Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Different slices of Pollard with equally satisfying results!

Album Review:
I know fans must be tired of the constant references to Mr. Pollard’s work ethic and the amount his recorded output so we will just say “it is what it is”. With that concept understood his solo releases on Merge Records always get a bit more attention and output is easy to talk about when Pollard’s latest could be considered a double album even though it has two separate titles. I believe out of all his projects that have been released within similar timeframes, Coast To Coast Carpet Of Love and Standard Gargoyle Decisions are more closely similar then any other combination Pollard has released to date. Carpet is a wee bit more on the power pop side of things while Gargoyle has a more basement rock vibe to it but overall if these albums were an one titled double album, no one would think any different. Each album offers up great opening tracks with the spawning catchy “Our Gaze” on Coast and the raw rock of “The Killers” on Gargoyle. Spread throughout both albums are many highlights and some forgettable 2 minute numbers but as two complete works they are still worth every second. The fact that there is a style difference between albums and the end result is still very rewarding is evidence why every Pollard record is worth your time and effort. Fans will surely eat up Carpet and Gargoyle and with such a giant catalog anyone new could easily start here to get a real sense of what Robert Pollard is all about.

Key Tracks (Carpet): "Our Gaze", "Rud Fins", "Customer's Throat"

Key Tracks (Gargoyle): "The Killers", "Feel Not Crushed", "Pill Gone Girl"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Stephen Malkmus
Lou Barlow
Spoon

Official Robert Pollard Website
Robert Pollard MySpace
Robert Pollard Info [Allmusic]
Merge Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sunday Drivers: Archetypes EP

Sunday Drivers
Archetypes EP
Permanent Records [2007]






Fire Note Says: Excellent start for LA based trio!

Album Review:
The Sunday Drivers play a mix of retro new wave and guitar with the synths in full force. What used to be a fresh genre is now about three years old and with bands like The Killers, Franz Ferdinand and Interpol considered pioneers of the current new wave revolution a band either must have something that stands out or be judged a knock-off. Lucky for the Sunday Drivers they have something that stands out and that is their cohesiveness and catchy tracks. There may not be much on their debut EP Archetypes that sounds new but it does sound original. With only 4 tracks to choose from it really was hard to select just three as key tracks because all four are stellar with the lead-off track “The Sweetest Disguise” being the strongest. The band is already known locally for their high energy live shows, contributing tracks to several indie films and a great showing at SXSW, so with this promising EP there is only one way for the band to go – UP!

Key Tracks: "The Sweetest Disguise", "Endless Summer", "Lions Of The Empire"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Killers
Interpol
Stellastarr*

Official Sunday Drivers Website
Sunday Drivers MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

PJ Harvey: White Chalk

PJ Harvey
White Chalk
Island Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: The ever morphing PJ Harvey!

Album Review:
You can never accuse PJ Harvey of offering the same album twice. It really matters what flavor of Harvey you like. For me, the guitar slinging howl of PJ Harvey is like no other on this planet so at first listen White Chalk did nothing for me. But White Chalk is not a once through album. It takes multiple takes to understand the completely piano driven album that highlights PJ’s greatest asset – her voice. The albums loneliness and isolating vibe make it a huge downer for a sunny day but if you are in the right mood and the sky is grey, White Chalk will have a completely different effect. The ghostly presentation of Harvey’s voice is as captivating as it is haunting, which is why White Chalk is not a throwaway. All of her normal collaborators are here including John Parish and Jim White but after White Chalk’s completion you won’t even recognize that anyone else played on it except Harvey. I think now you have gotten the point and once again it is anybody’s guess about what Miss PJ Harvey will do next.

Key Tracks: "The Mountain", "White Chalk", "Grow Grow Grow"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Tori Amos
Kristin Hersh
Cat Power

Official PJ Harvey Website
PJ Harvey MySpace
PJ Harvey Info [Allmusic]
Island Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Birdie Busch: Penny Arcade

Birdie Busch
Penny Arcade
Bar/None Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: No sophomore slump on Penny Arcade!

Album Review:
Although Emily “Birdie” Busch hails from Philly her sophomore release Penny Arcade brings to mind a much different environment. Her striking folkish singing style grabs you instantly with its sincerity and fits perfectly on a fall day looking out over the great Americana. Or at least that is the way it makes you feel even if your surroundings are completely urban. Her songs are upbeat, catchy and mostly just Birdie and a guitar cranking out the tunes complete with some backing drums to keep the beat. Probably what surprises you the most is that Busch’s simplicity is her biggest asset because Penny Arcade sounds much bigger like on the rockin’ track “Hold Ya” that has a snarly attitude and the surprising Steve Miller cover “Wild Mountain Honey”, which includes a little banjo that completely works. Birdie Busch will appeal to anyone that is into the neo-country genre like Neko Case or Kelly Logan but also will grab fans of Cat Power or Liz Phair just the same. Penny Arcade is worth your time and will satisfy any shuffle playlist so make sure to give her a try!

Key Tracks: "Go Go Gadget Heart", "Hold Ya", "Huff Singers [North Philly]"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Gillian Welch
Regina Spektor
Laura Cantrell

"Go Go Gadget Heart" (mp3)

More On This Album

Official Birdie Busch Website
Birdie Busch MySpace
Birdie Busch Info [Allmusic]
Bar/None Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

The Sadies: New Seasons

The Sadies
New Seasons
Yep Roc Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: The Sadies still have some new tricks up their sleeves!

Album Review:
The Sadies have been releasing albums since 1998 and now after 5 full-lengths, a double live album, a soundtrack, and several EPs the band delivers number six, New Seasons. New Seasons continues their alt-country/folk-rock sound but focuses more on the songs than instruments with gratifying results. It has been three years since their last release of new material and for a band that is well known for their exciting live act and backing band for the likes of Neko Case and Jon Langford; New Seasons represents one of their most vocally dynamic works. Some of this could partially be credited to co-producer Gary Louris (Jayhawks) who not only was in charge of the board but he supplied his backing harmonies throughout the album. The brothers Dallas and Travis Good seem to be very comfortable with this slightly newer direction and New Seasons sounds as fresh as their debut. The result as an album brings everything that longtime fans have loved about The Sadies, because lets face it they have not gotten worse with their instruments, and added more lush harmonies and expansive song structures equaling one of the better releases in this genre for 2007.

Key Tracks: "What's Left Behind", "Yours To Discover", "A Simple Aspiration"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Uncle Tupelo
The Jayhawks
The Pernice Brothers

Official Sadies Website
The Sadies MySpace
The Sadies Info [Allmusic]
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Liam Blazer

Band Of Horses: Cease To Begin

Band Of Horses
Cease To Begin
Sub Pop Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Band Of Horses have found their niche with great results!

Album Review:
Nothing like saying goodbye to a band member, packing your bags for a move across the country and getting back in the studio for an album release just a year and a half apart but that is exactly what Band Of Horses did. After original member Mat Brooke left the band before touring started one might think the end was happening before the beginning but Band Of Horses carried on. The band then left Seattle to South Carolina to be closer to family and friends and jumped into the studio to create Cease To Begin. Apparently commotion is a good thing and a motivator for Band Of Horses because Cease To Begin soars past their debut in quality, flow, and likeability. From the leadoff track “Is There A Ghost”, Ben Bridwell’s vocals climb with confidence and set the path for an album full of mid tempo winners that you will instantly want to hear again. Where before the band was considered a low-key Shins or a ballad style My Morning Jacket, Cease To Begin will only be talked about for comparison vocal styles and not content because the band has now successfully formed their own niche. Cease To Begin contains a more upbeat mature nature combined with a slight country twang that meanders in the background. Combining all of this with Bridwell’s falsetto and the bands solid musicianship gives us an album that will stand up to repeat listens and be a contender for one of the top twenty-five albums of the year.

Key Tracks: "Is There A Ghost", "No One's Gonna Love You", "The General Specific"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Rogue Wave
Mercury Rev
The Shins

Official Band Of Horses Website
Band Of Horses MySpace
Band Of Horses Info [Allmusic]
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Enon: Grass Geysers...Carbon Clouds

Enon
Grass Geysers...Carbon Clouds
Touch And Go Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Enon brings more noise and rock on 4th long-player!

Album Review:
Grass Geysers…Carbon Clouds is Enon’s first album of new material in four years and they have harnessed that penned up energy into a much more rock oriented sound. Enon’s previous albums have always been a balance of experimental noise, both soft and loud, mixed with catchy hooks that create something somewhat unique that they can call their own. Grass Geysers still retains that formula but this go around it does not feel as experimental, such as the kickoff track “Mirror On You”, which has some hand claps and foot stomping moments that is instantly likable. Toko Yasuda’s voice is unmistakable and breaths life into every moment she appears, which really drives the album while letting the scorching guitars and supporting synthesizers do their work. Enon still supplies fans with multiple styles on Grass Geysers that encourages repeat listens plus could appeal to whole new set of indie followers. Also, maybe more than on previous albums there are moments that bring back vivid memories of why we miss John Schmersal’s past band Brainiac so much with its rumbling noises and whirling guitars that maintain presence in the background. That of course is nothing but a big positive for Enon in my book and another reason to pick up Grass Geysers…Carbon Clouds tomorrow when it hits the retail shelves!

Key Tracks: "Mirror On You", "Law Of Johnny Dolittle", "Mr. Ratatatatat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Beck
The Apples In Stereo
Les Savy Fav

Official Enon Website
Enon MySpace
Enon Info [Allmusic]
Touch And Go Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Iron & Wine: The Shepherd's Dog

Iron & Wine
The Shepherd's Dog
Sub Pop Records [2007]








 
Fire Note Says: Most diverse and expansive in sound could equal best album yet from Iron & Wine!

Album Review:
The first thing you will notice on The Shepherd’s Dog is that Sam Beam’s Iron & Wine now seem like a full band versus the one man whisper show that were his first several outings. Not that there was anything wrong with his earlier work because they are great but it is nice to see this expansion coming off the heels of the more band like Woman King EP [2005] and his collaboration album with Calexico. What makes The Shepherd’s Dog so intriguing and listenable are the different selections of instrumentation that exist. “House By The Sea” is full of bass and sax that together create a sort of Western African style of music, while steel guitar and banjo can found throughout along with the typical piano, drums and acoustic guitar. Now all of this would not be possible without Sam Beam’s most powerful instrument still being his vocals. The Shepherd’s Dog does a nice job of using his vocals in layered harmonies and highlighting his solid songwriting talents to form an album that just gets better with every listen. Iron & Wine easily have released their most diverse album yet in The Shepherd’s Dog and although it expands on all of its talents the core still exits making it a must have for any fan and something worthy to try out for new ones!

Key Tracks: "Boy With A Coin", "Innocent Bones", "Pagan Angel And A Borrowed Car"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Calexico
Devendra Banhart
José González

Official Iron & Wine Website
Iron & Wine MySpace
Iron & Wine Info [Allmusic]
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Femurs: Modern Mexico

The Femurs
Modern Mexico
HomeSpun Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Seattle group shows that sun exists in the Northwest!

Album Review:
The Femurs consist of childhood buddies Rob & Colin Femur (not brothers – just friends) who have just launched their debut Modern Mexico, which shows off their talents and chemistry as they bounce back and forth the responsibility with vocals, drums, guitars and songwriting. Hell – the only thing they don’t share on this album is when they meet in the middle with their perfect sweet harmonies. The twelve track album really consists of two six song EPs with the newest songs in front followed by an EP originally released in 2006. The only main difference between tracks is that the second half definitely has a bit more lo-fi vibe to it but I believe it makes the album that much more catchy and real. The duo claim a thousand different bands as their influence and Modern Mexico tells the story with its super power pop harmonics, a punk intensity strumming on the acoustic guitars and a solid alternative beat keeping the foot tapping time. The Femurs are an infectious little group that I guarantee you will enjoy shall you seek them out and not only will they put a smile on your face but you will be head nodding in seconds trying to hit the replay button!

Key Tracks: "Vitamins", "Crazy Girl", "Plastic Swords"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sebadoh
The Rugburns
The Bens

The Femurs MySpace

-Reviewed by Liam Blazer

Jens Lekman: Night Falls Over Kortedala

Jens Lekman
Night Falls Over Kortedala
Secretly Canadian Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Second full-length from Lekman is timeless and enjoyable!

Album Review:
Many times it takes time for an artist to gather their thoughts and release new material. Jens Lekman is no different and during his break time Lekman actually contemplated quitting music altogether, so as Night Falls Over Kortedala comes to our doorsteps three years after his stellar debut long player When I Said I Wanted To Be Your Dog [2004] we are nothing but thrilled with the results. If you have never listened to Lekman’s sound before, it does take a bit of getting used to because of his boyish Jonathan Richman voice surrounded by a multitude of samples and instruments. Night Falls Over Kortedala follows this formula and does not really update his style but expands on the quality with more bright melodies and intriguing lyrics that not only force you to listen but bring you back to the table for repeat listens. After you have fully taken in Night Falls Over Kortedala you realize that this is probably one of the better releases of the year and that Jens Lekman just fits for whatever mood you are in and his voice grows on you that being included in every shuffle playlist you have created makes perfect sense. Night Falls Over Kortedala is as timeless as it is enjoyable so make sure you check it out now just in case it is another three years before we get another!

Key Tracks: "Friday Night At The Drive-In Bingo", "A Postcard To Nina", "The Opposite Of Hallelujah"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Pelle Carlberg
Magnetic Fields
Sondre Lerche

Official Jens Lekman Website
Jens Lekman MySpace
Jens Lekman Info [Allmusic]
Secretly Canadian Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The Weakerthans: Reunion Tour

The Weakerthans
Reunion Tour
Epitaph Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: It may have took 4 years but Reunion Tour was worth the wait!

Album Review:
As much as some people hate to admit it, Canada has given us some pretty solid indie bands over the years and I would put The Weakerthans in that elite group. It has been four years since their last critically hailed release Reconstruction Site [2003] so I met Reunion Tour with great anticipation and I must tell you it was worth the wait. The Weakerthans provide another batch of pleasant, catchy, and melodic tracks that leave you with a rather warm feeling even though many of the lyrics deal with the somber aspects of everyday life. John Sampson’s vocals are just how we remembered them with a commanding delivery style and contagious harmonies that draw you in. The end result is that Reunion Tour will give everything back given the chance and it only gets better with repeat listens. The Weakerthans sound is timeless and regardless of when Reunion Tour hits your player you should be ready to welcome your Northern friends because they won’t be leaving you anytime soon.

Key Tracks: "Tournament Of Hearts", "Civil Twilight", "Sun In An Empty Room"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Death Cab For Cutie
Clem Snide
The Decemberists

Official Weakerthans Website
The Weakerthans MySpace
The Weakerthans Info [Allmusic]
Epitaph Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Foo Fighters: Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace

Foo Fighters
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace
RCA Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Consistent 6th album from the Foo Fighters.

Album Review:
For any band, consistency is always a good thing, but for the Foo Fighters I hold the bar higher. Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace feels a bit like the Foo’s are on autopilot. The songs are not bad and there is the standard balance of ballad’s and heavy rockers that we have come to expect but I think that is my point. I can’t help to think that I have heard these tracks all before. Like I said, Echoes still feels like a complete album but there is nothing that stands out making me reach for the repeat button. It is not that Echoes has nothing new to offer because on several tracks like “Summers End” and “Statues” the band has a little more mature Americana sound to them like a Petty or Springsteen which really works and is possibly a look into their future offerings. Ultimately, fans will like Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace because it still has enough rocking tunes to keep the volume cranked and catchy melodies that will stick with you all day. The real test will be how Echoes plays out over time and if it has staying power or will you reach for the reissue of The Colour And The Shape that just recently came out? I guess the masses will decide!

Key Tracks: "The Pretender", "Long Road To Ruin", "Erase/Replace"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Queens Of The Stone Age
Audioslave
Velvet Revolver

Official Foo Fighters Website
Foo Fighters MySpace
Foo Fighters Info [Allmusic]
RCA Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael