Aimee Mann: @#%&! Smilers

Aimee Mann
@#%&! Smilers
SuperEgo Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: Mann returns to early form and releases best album in eight years!

Album Review:
Many fans would agree with me that if you made a top ten list of current female singer/songwriter types Aimee Mann could easily take a slot with her witty penmanship and instantly recognizable voice. @#%&! Smilers is Mann’s seventh solo release and her best album since Bachelor No. 2 [2000]. After her more recent offerings tried new musical avenues like the concept album The Forgotten Arm [2005] and the 2006 Christmas album One More Drifter In The Snow, Mann has went back to the basics, which made her early music so infectious of strumming the acoustic guitar and singing with true emotion. It is not like @#%&! Smilers is a retread of any sorts because an abundance of new tricks show up on the record such as replacing the electric guitars with distorted Wurlitzers, Clavinets, and analog synthesizers along with interwoven keyboards, strings and full horn sections. Even though it sounds like there are tons of bells and whistles happening, these enhancements are actually why @#%&! Smilers succeeds because the new additions are neatly contained in the background giving each song a rich and powerful depth while still focusing on Mann’s first-rate vocals. Longtime fans of Aimee will greatly enjoy @#%&! Smilers and it is sure to become an instant favorite in their playlist, while newcomers that may not be familiar of Mann’s successful career that included fronting Til Tuesday or her Oscar nominated song “Save Me” in Magnolia [1999], can easily get acquainted right now and work their way backwards without a problem!

Key Tracks: "Freeway", "Borrowing Time", "It's Over"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Eleni Mandell
The Heavy Circles
Emma Pollock

Official Aimee Mann Website
Aimee Mann MySpace
Aimee Mann Info [Allmusic]
SuperEgo Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Shearwater: Rook

Shearwater
Rook
Matador Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Bigger sound - same passion!

Album Review:
It is always fascinating to watch a “side project” turn into something more. Shearwater is one of those type projects. Jonathan Meiburg and Will Sheff pull double duty because of their other critically acclaimed band Okkervil River and began Shearwater in 1999 as an outlet for a quieter type of music. What they may not have expected is the success of their last album Palo Santo [2006] and now the anticipation for the bands fifth album Rook is greater than ever. The good news for fans is that the wait is over because Rook hits next Tuesday and the album will completely satisfy them with its more accomplished sound and depth that put to rest the notion of a “side project”. At a very orderly 35 minutes, Shearwater packs Rook with instrumentation that makes it feel bigger, more grandiose and sonic then anything they have released before. With harps, strings, organs, trumpets and beating drums, Rook oscillates between short compact bursts like the more rocking two minute “Century Eyes” to the epic and gorgeous seven minute “Home Life”. Meiburg’s vocals soar throughout the album fronting a full band sound but on many occasions accomplish a more personal passionate approach to the delivery more like a young Richard Thompson. If you are looking for a repeat of Palo Santo, Rook might fall a bit short of that expectation because that album is their swan song, but Rook should be still considered an excellent follow up and repeat listens come with great reward that you will not be disappointed!

Key Tracks: "Rooks", "Century Eyes", "The Snow Leopard"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Tragically Hip
Arcade Fire
Richard Thompson

Official Shearwater Website
Shearwater MySpace
Shearwater Info [Allmusic]
Matador Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Julie Ocean: Long Gone And Nearly There

Julie Ocean
Long Gone And Nearly There
Transit Of Venus Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Great things come in small packages!

Album Review:
Are you into power pop? Do you have a short attention span? Do you miss the bliss of the alt-90s heyday? If you answered yes to any of the above then Julie Ocean’s debut album Long Gone And Nearly There is going to not only be right up your listening alley but will turn into your surprise favorite. The Washington D.C. quartet has an impressive resume of indie experience which is lead by guitarist/singer Jim Spellman of Velocity Girl fame and guitarist/singer Terry Banks of Saturday People, Tree Fort Angst and Glo-Worm. The album is a concise ten songs that just clocks in over twenty-five minutes so there is no filler and the tracks simply start, make a point, and stop with Byrds-esque guitars and catchy harmony vocals. Long Gone And Nearly There was produced by Geoff Sanoff (Fountains Of Wayne, Luna, Secret Machines), which adds to the indie pop delight and seems like the perfect fit. After taking Long Gone And Nearly There for one spin and hearing the catchy harmonies of “#1 Song” and the hook in “Here Comes Danny” that sticks in your head, you quickly realize Julie Ocean reminds of you of the past but sound perfect for the present again and again and again!

Key Tracks: "#1 Song", "Here Comes Danny", "Looking At Me / Looking At You"

#1 Song (mp3)

Bands With Similar Fire:
Teenage Fanclub
Velvet Crush
The Saturday People

Julie Ocean MySpace
Transit Of Venus Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Old 97's: Blame It On Gravity

Old 97's
Blame It On Gravity
New West Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: The Old 97's make a superb return and offer up another "alt-country" staple!

Album Review:
When a person defines the “alt-country” genre the Old 97s always and rightfully so are mentioned in the same sentence. The band has always had the right substance to their music that accomplished melding pop songs with a country-rock background, which was instantly catchy, fun and memorable. On the Dallas bands seventh studio long player Blame It On Gravity they bring more of that “Old 97s” charm with a controlled and balanced vibe that only a band of their experience can deliver. This is the upside of having more responsibility in their life such as fatherhood and slowly creeping into a middle age stature because they know that every song does not need the fire like their own “Timebomb” from the breakout album Too Far Too Care [1997], but that transitions, style and poise do matter. For longtime fans of the band, Blame It On Gravity is a must because it offers everything they will enjoy from the rebel rousing rockers like “Ride” and “The Fool” to the Murry Hammond touching number in “Color Of A Lonely Heart Is Blue” to the ever solid Rhett Miller and his likeable desperation vocals on “Dance With Me” and “No Baby I” that not many other singers can pull off. The Old 97s are successful in achieving their staple sound on Blame It On Gravity because they recognize what they do best and that is producing “alt-country” classics – This offering is no different!

Key Tracks: "Dance With Me", "Color Of A Lonely Heart Is Blue", "My Two Feet"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Drive-By Truckers
The Bottle Rockets
Uncle Tupelo

Official Old 97's Website
Old 97's MySpace
Old 97's Info [Allmusic]
New West Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Heys: YoungBored&Broke

The Heys
YoungBored&Broke
4 West Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: The Heys give a lesson in rock straight from the UK on YoungBored&Broke!

Album Review:
From the kickstart guitar revving on the opening track “Friday Night” to the sing along mid tempo closer “Take It Easy”, The Heys lay it all out on the table for the full forty-six minutes on their debut record YoungBored&Broke. The concept of the band was actually conceived back in 2004 by singer/songwriter Tom Flynn. But after spending some time looking for the best people to be in the band and trying various line-ups, Flynn finally found what he was looking for within his circle of musician friends at the local pub and then poof - The Heys were formed. To avoid the pitfalls of expensive recordings and the possibility that they could sound terrible the band built their own basement studio which is a decision that shines through on each pounding track. It is this raw energy that makes YoungBored&Broke so appealing and The Heys “rough around the edges” vibe that makes every hand clap more lively, every melody ring truer and the need to see this band in a packed club seem dire. With a fresh spirit like the Arctic Monkeys and the artistic style of The Jam, The Heys have created a fantastic debut that rocks timelessly and hums off into the night, leaving the listener with only one thing to do – hit repeat!

Key Tracks: "Pressure", "Hey", "Scene"

Pressure (mp3)
Friday Night (mp3)

Bands With Similar Fire:
You Am I
Arctic Monkeys
The Jam

Official Heys Website
The Heys MySpace
4 West Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Reissue Special: Day Two

Beck
Odelay [Deluxe Edition]
Geffen Records [1996; re:2008]
(2 CD Set)






What's New:
Remastered album; two unreleased tracks; b-sides from import singles and albums; a soundtrack contribution; 3 remixed tracks

Why Get It:
Mellow Gold introduced Beck to a new audience with the breakout hit “Loser” but Odelay not only erased the notion of a one hit wonder it blew everyone away with its complete perfect and infectious fusion of hip-hop, electronica, rock, blues, indie, jazz, folk and country. The Deluxe Edition only highlights what a stellar and prolific artist Beck really is because taking in all of his work from this era is stunning. The b-sides are great, “Deadweight” from the movie A Life Less Ordinary [1997] is on here which has always been one of my Beck favs and hell even the 12 minute U.N.K.L.E. remix of “Where It’s At” is crazy fun. This is an album for the ages!


The Replacements
Twin/Tone Catalog
Twin/Tone/Rhino/Ryko Records [1981-1984; re:2008]
(4 Single CDs)






What's New:
Remastered and expanded versions of four early albums

Why Get It:
If you have never listened to a Replacements record – stop reading this and go seek them out – Now! If you have not played one of their albums in awhile – stop reading this and go put one on – then come back. Now that everyone is up to speed it already makes sense to you why these are essential albums. Not because Paul Westerberg has the best voice or Tommy Stinson is badest bad ass on bass but because The Replacements as a collective were fun, smart, creative and one of the best punk rock garage outfits around. That being said you can’t go wrong with picking up all four discs but a quick order from best to least best would be Let It Be [1984], Sorry Ma…[1981], Hootenanny [1983] and Stink [1982]. Rumor has it The Replacements actually may reunite for a tour (believe it when I see it) and Rhino is releasing the Sire catalog albums later this year in the same remastered and expanded style.


Whiskeytown
Strangers Almanac [Deluxe Edition]
Geffen Records [1997; re:2008]
(2 CD Set)






What's New:
Remastered album; previously unreleased live in the studio tracks; Barn’s On Fire sessions; acoustic and early track versions; soundtrack contributions

Why Get It:
Ryan Adams was only 22 when Strangers Almanac released and many people still don’t know who Adams is, let alone the band he used to front Whiskeytown, so you may question the Deluxe Edition treatment. I do believe that the group will go down as one of the best and shortest lived alt-country bands that stacks right up there with Uncle Tupelo. The harmonies between Adams and Caitlin Cary are perfect and “16 Days” is a track I could leave on repeat for days. If you are a fan now of Ryan Adams this is an essential staple to put in your collection. The acoustic and early versions of the tracks highlight his talents and make it easy to see why he is now a solo artist. There is debate on whether Strangers Almanac is the best album in the bands catalog but after taking this remastered version for a spin you would be hard pressed to convince me that it is not.

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Reissue Special: Day One

So far this year there have been some great reissues that we felt compelled to tell you about. So today and tomorrow we are going to feature some of the best that have released so far in 2008!

Midnight Oil
Diesel And Dust [20th Anniversary Legacy Edition]
Columbia/Legacy Records [1987; re:2008]
(CD/DVD Set)

What’s New:
Remastered album; additional track “Gunbarrel Highway” that was not originally included on the US version due to a controversial line in its lyrics; DVD of 1987 Blackfella/Whitefella Tour documentary; videos for “The Dead Heart” & “Beds Are Burning”

Why Get It:
This album may be a complete new one for some of our readers but Diesel And Dust by Midnight Oil was originally released in 1987 and back in 1989 Rolling Stone ranked it number 13 on their list of the 100 best albums of the 1980’s. The album is a concept album about the struggles of the Australian Aborigines and environmental causes. Diesel And Dust oozes true emotion and passion with every track and it still sounds freshly relevant today. It includes four worldwide singles and went platinum in the US and has never sounded better. If you are not familiar with any of Midnight Oil’s catalog you should start here. By no surprise to anyone lead vocalist Peter Garrett is currently the Australian Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts in 2007. Some passions never die!

Jimmy Eat World
Bleed American [Deluxe Edition]
Geffen Records [2001; re:2008]
(2 CD Set)

What’s New:
Remastered album; a whole second disc worth of b-sides, live tracks, demos and an unreleased version of "Your House"

Why Get It:
Bleed American was the fourth album by Jimmy Eat World. It was released on July 24, 2001, and became self-titled following the September 11, 2001 attacks, before reverting to its original name on this Deluxe Edition. Bleed American successfully took the “emo” tag and mixed it perfectly with captivating hooks, memorable lyrics and cultivated it all into a rock record that still sounds as alive today as it did seven years ago and I bet it will sound great when it is twenty-five. The bonus disc is worth it for fans because it collects all of the extras that originally released on import Jimmy releases in one place. Several tracks of these that stand out include the acoustic version of “The Middle” and the Guided By Voices cover “Game Of Pricks”.

The Lemonheads
It's A Shame About Ray [Collector's Edition]
Atlantic/Rhino Records [1992; re:2008]
(CD/DVD Set)





What’s New:

Remastered album; nine demo versions of album tracks; b-side “Shaky Ground”; DVD containing the previous VHS release Two Weeks In Australia that has eight music videos and 3 live video tracks.

Why Get It:

The Lemonheads fifth album It’s A Shame About Ray is still an album that flies under the radar when people talk about great albums of the early nineties era. It is a pure 30 minutes of fun and contains irresistible tracks that you can sing, hum and shout along to. It is just about a band putting out a record and guess what – it caught on. Technically, I believe this could be called the reissue to the reissue because after its initial release, the album was re-issued with a cover of "Mrs. Robinson", originally by Simon & Garfunkel, which was released as a single. The song had been recorded after the other tracks, with a different bass player and is also included still included here. This was a record company thing which also switched the title of the song "My Drug Buddy" to a less-provocative "Buddy" when the album was reissued (It is back as “My Drug Buddy” here). Regardless of the earlier changes, It’s A Shame About Ray is a great record that sparkles with the remaster treatment. The DVD captures the laid back innocence and appeal of The Lemonheads plus people probably didn’t know or forgot that the title tracked video stars Johnny Depp, which was fun to watch. Lastly, at first the extra musical offerings seem a bit light but the demo tracks are superb. They feature mostly Dando and his guitar, with some backing from Hatfield and some countdowns in the beginning but they all highlight the timeless genius of the twelve original tracks.

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Bridges And Powerlines: Ghost Types

Bridges And Powerlines
Ghost Types
CityBird Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Infectious indie pop!

Album Review:
After a well received self-titled EP in 2006, Bridges And Powerlines spent 2007 working hard on recording their debut record Ghost Types with indie producer Chris Zane (Les Savy Fav, Asobi Seksu, The White Rabbits) that was just released on their on label CityBird. The result is a full length batch of bouncy indie pop songs that use the same catchy guitar, harmonies and keyboards as their successful EP. The Brooklyn band has many different faces and on Ghost Types they explore their full range, which in different parts sounds like an early R.E.M., to a brooding Interpol, that is all mixed with quick witty sharp and angular turns like Spoon. They harness these different aspects into a cohesive output which is a fun listen and holds up to repeat listens. Lead singer Andrew Wood has a very likable and familiar voice, which instantly grabs your attention and brings you into the album. Bridges And Powerlines are not a band that is going to blow you away the minute you spin their record but Ghost Types is a solid album that will win you over after some quality time with its bright layers and indie friendliness.

Key Tracks: "The Golden Age", "The Thieves, They Are Everywhere", "This Last Equation"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Wolf Parade
Imperial Teen
Hot Hot Heat

Uncalibrated (mp3)
The Golden Age (mp3)

Bridges And Powerlines: Bridges And Powerlines EP [Fire Note Review 9/28/06]

Official Bridges And Powerlines Website
Bridges And Powerlines MySpace
Bridges And Powerlines Info [Allmusic]
CityBird Records

Buy at iTunes Music Store

More On This Album

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Elvis Costello And The Imposters: Momofuku

Elvis Costello And The Imposters
Momofuku
Lost Highway Records [2008]






Fire Note Says: Costello returns with a rockin' Imposters album that everyone will enjoy!

Album Review:
As an artist reaches the elder statesman status it is really easy to overlook or push their albums aside because you might miss out on “the next big thing”. But pushing the new Elvis Costello record Momofuku to the side would be a huge mistake because it rolls in perfect mirror image of classic Elvis and can hold its own with some of his best in the extensive Costello catalog. Calling it a comeback album would not be a good characterization because there are so many sides of Costello that it is more fitting to just classify Momofuku as an Imposter album, which should automatically have you expect a more “rock band” album. To say Elvis has mellowed would be a misnomer because originally his frustration with the music business had Momofuku slated to release on vinyl and digital download only but thankfully a CD version was produced so that his wide fanbase could enjoy. The album welcomes some new members into the Imposters family and injects some true youthful energy that includes Jenny Lewis (Rilo Kiley), Johnathan Rice and longtime Costello drummer Pete Thomas’ daughter Tennessee, which plays in the alt rock group The Like. The collective small supergroup only hopes to hold up to Elvis’s energy because the songs are all raw, classy and completely natural that boils over with his exuberance. With each repeat spin, Momofuku gets better and each song sticks with you giving the album a timeless appeal that most certainly will sound just as great ten years from now. That is the true addictive element to Elvis Costello and the Imposters is that I guarantee you could shuffle these tracks in with his early catalog and many listeners would not be able to tell a difference – guess what – This is the side of Costello I can’t stop listening to!

Key Tracks: "No Hiding Place", "Go Away", "Stella Hurt"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ted Leo
Spoon
Joe Jackson

Official Elvis Costello Website
Elvis Costello MySpace
Elvis Costello Info [Allmusic]
Lost Highway Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Colin Meloy: Colin Meloy Sings Live!

Colin Meloy
Colin Meloy Sings Live!
Kill Rock Stars [2008]









Fire Note Says: Does a great job of capturing what his live shows are like!

Album Review:
Colin Meloy is better known to all as the lead singer of The Decemberists. This solo live record is a nice expansion of several “Sings” tour only EPs he has released recently that have been cover records of Morrissey, Shirley Collins and Sam Cooke. This album captures the very familiar and comfortable atmosphere that Meloy brings to all of his live solo performances and with The Decemberists with an acoustic setting. You get the friendly joking banter, crowd enjoyment with clapping and laughter, and solid presentation of the material. Two of the fourteen tracks are previously unreleased compositions, with one being “Wonder” which has a familiar Decemberists feel to it and “Dracula, Dracula”, which is introduced as the worst song Meloy has ever written. He probably is correct with this statement but it his acknowledgment of its poor quality and the inclusion of the track that captures the true spirit of his shows and his easy going attitude makes the record better because no studio recording can reproduce this energy. The songs included here are from The Decemberists first three albums Castaways And Cutouts [2002], Her Majesty [2003], Picaresque [2005], a cut form their EP and one from Meloy’s old band Tarkio. Unfortunate for us when Sings Live! was recorded it was on his 06’ solo tour so no tracks from the excellent Crane Wife [2006] are included here but small short covers of The Smiths, R.E.M. and Fleetwood Mac easily make up for it. Overall this will be a record for fans because although it is not a bad place for an introduction to Colin, it can be far more appreciated if you know were he is coming from!

Key Tracks: "Here I Dreamt I Was An Architect", "Wonder", "The Engine Driver"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Decemberists
Bright Eyes
Britt Daniels

The Decemberists: The Crane Wife [Fire Note Review 10/2/06]

Colin Meloy MySpace
Official Decemberists Website
Kill Rock Stars

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Death Cab For Cutie: Narrow Stairs

Death Cab For Cutie
Narrow Stairs
Atlantic Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Death Cab aims to possess your heart and shows that they are still the same band you love!

Album Review:
First off I will say that Death Cab For Cutie has some guts leading off their sixth album and second for a major label with two songs that combined run a whopping 13:41 minutes, which also includes the first single “I Will Possess Your Heart” taking up 8:26 of that. Call it their artistic status, rebellion against the mainstream or the fact that they have never really changed but Narrow Stairs is a complete effort that will not go down as their best album in the catalog but is easily listenable, likable and there is no doubt fans will still adore it. The noticeable change on Narrow Stairs from previous efforts is that it comes off like a more mature record and fits a band that has entered their thirties. Ben Gibbard tells it like it is and shoots to connect with his audience as he addresses that there are challenges in life no matter how successful or satisfied you may be. Spoken like a wise elder statesman Death Cab For Cutie may have a more mature outlook but still show their old selves on tracks like “Cath…” and “Long Division” that have the rhythmic bounce of some of their earlier work, which should thrill longtime fans. I believe that every band that has experienced longevity tries to avoid releasing the same album so they take chances. Death Cab For Cutie takes those chances with some more ballad style tracks like the infectious downer “Grapevine Fires”, combined with some old school Death Cab and then there is the expansive single, which ultimately grabs hold of you. Narrow Stairs is not going to blow everyone away but it is a solid addition to their catalog that will keep fans coming back for more!

Key Tracks: "Cath...", "Long Division", "I Will Possess Your Heart"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Modest Mouse
Built To Spill
The Decemberists

Official Death Cab Website
Death Cab For Cutie MySpace
Death Cab For Cutie Info [Allmusic]
Atlantic Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Local Tourists: Happy Birthday, Kyle

The Local Tourists
Happy Birthday, Kyle
East Drive Records [2007]







Fire Note Says: Everyday music for people everyday!

Album Review:
The Local Tourists debut album Happy Birthday, Kyle is full of straight forward pop-rock sounds that bring quality with every melody, chord change and full ranged vocals. Brendan O’Malley and Kent Schauble met at the Indiana University School of Music in 1995 and have been performing together since around 2002. Move ahead six years and the time together has paid off, as well as their musical education, because Happy Birthday, Kyle showcases their talents and proves to the listener very quickly that the duo is very serious and experienced with the clean production and seasoned sound of the record. The quality of sound is an important element of the record, which it is notable that Happy Birthday, Kyle includes the talents of percussionist Steven Wolf (Annie Lennox, Pink, Avril), bassist Jack Daley (Kravitz) and pianist Jim Ryan, which perfects the mix. The best part of The Local Tourists is that their musical style is ideal for many different tastes, which range from the Queen like “Six For A Parlay, Twelve For A Teaser” to the alt-country fun of twanger “Katie” and catchy bigger rockers like “Kyle”. There really is something for everyone and Happy Birthday, Kyle is an album that is perfect to just put on and play that offers rewarding repeat listens.

Key Tracks: "Tuesday Evening", "Kyle", "The Ballad Of Lickey And Diamond"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Barenaked Ladies
Ben Folds
Dishwalla

Official Local Tourists Website
The Local Tourists MySpace

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Langhorne Slim: Langhorne Slim

Langhorne Slim
Langhorne Slim
Kemado Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Mr. Slim brings a fun foot stompin' time on his long overdue record!

Album Review:
Langhorne Slim built some hype back in 2006 with his Engine EP release on V2 records. Unfortunately when V2 folded the deal collapsed and the highly anticipated full length album was stuck in limbo. Fast forward to present day - Langhorne Slim is now on Kemado Records and his self-titled full record is upon us, which turns out was worth every minute that ticked by. It is a record that takes life by the horns and throws it into the air with one carefree toss because Langhorne Slim is a mix of country, folk, and pop, that is more infectious with every spin. Slim’s overall vocal style is very Dylan like and he can tell a story with the best of them. He is backed by his band The War Eagles which provide upright bass, percussion and background vocals giving Langhorne Slim a complete band vibe versus a one man and an acoustic guitar feel, which also gives him the perfect tools to rock out on tunes. If you are looking for an innovative and fun new artist that most probably will end up on several publications “artist to watch” lists, Langhorne Slim is one to experience now and start telling your friends that you found him first!

Key Tracks: "The Honeymoon", "Rebel Side Of Heaven", "She's Gone"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Haynes Boys
Bright Eyes
The Hold Steady

Langhorne Slim MySpace
Langhorne Slim Info [Allmusic]
Kemado Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Butcher The Bar: Sleep At Your Own Speed

Butcher The Bar
Sleep At Your Own Speed
Morr Music [2008]









Fire Note Says: A debut worth checking out for anytime of the day!

Album Review:
Butcher The Bar is really Manchester’s Joel Nicholson and his guitar. He falls into that special category of the singer / songwriter genre that is right out of the Elliott Smith playbook and on his debut record Sleep At Your Own Speed he would make Smith proud. Nicholson’s softly spoken vocals have a fragility to them that keeps the listener hanging onto every lyric and each strum of his guitar is precisely placed allowing a pace that never drags. Sleep At Your Own Speed is a coming-of-age record for the 22 year old that consists of thirteen short stories which listeners can relate to, such as proclaiming his sadness to a city that has changed for the worse over time in “Getaway”, or changing his scenery if everything feels alright in “Leaving This Town”. Butcher The Bar’s debut is a refreshing album of delicate and mostly acoustic pop gems that will have you going for the repeat button every time, not to mention it's an album that will fit nicely into any shuffle playlist you can create at any moment in time.

Key Tracks: "Sex Szene", "Ball Point Skin Notes", "Leave This Town"

Leave This Town (mp3)

Bands With Similar Fire:
Elliott Smith
Sufjan Stevens
Ben Gibbard

Butcher The Bar MySpace
Morr Music

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Young Knives: Superabundance

Young Knives
Superabundance
Rykodisc [2008]







Fire Note Says: If you are into the Brit Pop - you will be into the Young Knives!

Album Review:
Superabundance is the second full-length album and follow-up to 2006's Voices Of Animals And Men from the Young Knives. Voices of Animals was not released in the states until February 2007, so Superabundance is really the bands first album to get a true push here in the States. New fans to the band will instantly recognize them as a UK band with their bouncy swagger and their snappy Brit Pop vibe that draws you in and retains your interest. If you have a wide musical palate and have heard of the Young Knives, you will recognize that Superabundance is a much bigger and concentrated record than anything they have done yet. It has loads of layered guitars, harmonic vocals and an orchestrated feel to it that includes an array of instruments, such as piping trumpets, which help achieve this expansive sound. Lyrically the Young Knives stay the course of having a more jaded social view of England and examine its lack of care for people, its materialism and the overwhelming experience of just plain existing. This concerned focus is more direct then before, especially when the band is not in their post punk mode, which results in boosting Superabundance’s appeal and adding a real substance to the record. The jury will be out if the Young Knives can break out on this side of the sea but Superabundance should not go unnoticed, especially with all of the Brit Pop lovers that live over here (I must admit that I am one of them) plus the US version has 6 bonus tracks tacked on to it, so it is a pretty sweet deal with very low risk.

Key Tracks: "Turn Tail", "Up All Night", "Terra Firma"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Rumble Strips
Arctic Monkeys
The Rakes

Official Young Knives Website
Young Knives MySpace
Young Knives Info [Allmusic]
Rykodisc

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

We Are Scientists: Brain Thrust Mastery

We Are Scientists
Brain Thrust Mastery
Astralwerks Records [2008]

Fire Note Says: Solid listen all the way through!

Album Review:
We Are Scientists took critics by storm with their 2005 major label debut With Love & Squalor that sold over 150,000 copies in the UK and built a strong indie fanbase here in the US. Now back and trying to avoid the sophomore slump, We Are Scientists are launching Brain Trust Mastery to the masses next Tuesday May 13. The album immediately feels more focused and musically expansive than With Love & Squalor. The more spastic and punk moments of that album have been replaced with sprawling vocals and synthesized back ups. This is not a bad development for the band because the songs sound well polished and first single “After Hours” has an upbeat bounce to it that should not only be embraced by their fans but bring many new ones to the lab. Where as before We Are Scientists were tagged as a more “Dance Punk” band, Brain Trust Mastery is a more true rock record that is epic in parts, loud in others and at some points still danceable but make no mistake it is a record that should help propel the band to a larger audience and hold everyone’s interest on what they do next.

Key Tracks: "After Hours", "Tonight", "Impatience"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Jimmy Eat World
Hot Hot Heat
The Futureheads

Official We Are Scientists Website
We Are Scientists MySpace
We Are Scientists Info [Allmusic]
Astralwerks Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Father Bloopy: Ginger, Baby

Father Bloopy
Ginger, Baby
Dippy Records [2007]









Fire Note Says: Don't let the name stop you from checking out the likable Ginger, Baby!

Album Review:
Miami’s Father Bloopy and their debut record Ginger, Baby is a slice of modern indie rock that lets their influences like The Kinks, Lou Reed and even ELO shine through on many of the twelve tracks, giving the album a true sense of familiarity even though the band flies under the radar of most. The group is lead by singer/songwriter Roger Houdaille, which has been on the Miami scene for years releasing solo EPs. These previous recordings lead up to the release of Ginger, Baby which follows suit of his earlier offerings containing focused and concise tracks of witty lyrics and pop sensibilities. Houdaille has the swagger and croon of a young Jonathan Richman, which gives each track a likable quality and makes repeat listens rewarding. You might get scared off from the bands name itself but once you get by the somewhat awkward naming the music on Ginger, Baby will win itself a spot in your rotation because of its modern yet classic groove of indie rock that can stand beside some of the more familiar artists in the genre.

Key Tracks: "Ginger, Baby", "And I, Lover", "Miss Morality"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Modern Lovers
Evan Dando
Lou Reed

Official Father Bloopy Website
Father Bloopy MySpace
Dippy Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Ladytron: Velocifero

Ladytron
Velocifero
Nettwerk Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Ladytron returns with the stellar harder hitting album Velocifero!

Album Review:
The first thing that stands out on Ladytron’s fourth album Velocifero is the strong pounding drum beats that drive many of the thirteen tracks. Some longtime Ladytron fans may be scared to hear this at first but I will tell you that the more upbeat and edgier vibe to Velocifero fits the band like a glove. The band said the louder sound came from the touring experience for Witching Hour [2005] and how they strived to make the songs hit the audience harder so when they immediately landed in the studio when the tour ended they knew the direction Ladytron wanted to go. With the more upbeat tracks the band brought in Alessandro Cortini (Nine Inch Nails) and Vicarious Bliss to finish out the production and ultimately created a perfect match. More rock album aside, what you still get from Ladytron is the danceable electronic elements that have always existed, some unique songs such as the opening track “Black Cat” and “Kletva” which are sung in Bulgarian, plus the catchy closing duet with bandmate Daniel Hunt that gives them a modern Human League look. Velocifero is more and more infectious with each spin and could be the catchiest complete album the band has released to date so be sure to check it out when it hits shelves June 3.

Key Tracks: "Ghosts", "I'm Not Scared", "Versus"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Cut Copy
Komeda
Interpol

Official Ladytron Website
Ladytron MySpace
Ladytron Info [Allmusic]
Nettwerk Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Jukebox The Ghost: Let Live And Let Ghosts

Jukebox The Ghost
Let Live And Let Ghosts
The Rebel Group [2008]









Fire Note Says: Band brings fresh energy to create a fun catchy album!

Album Review:
Comparing Washington, DC’s Jukebox The Ghost to Ben Folds Five is an easy one because the band cranks out piano-driven indie gems on their debut record much like the free spirit the boys from North Carolina. Let Live And Let Ghosts is the bands debut record that expands on their infectious and under the radar self-titled EP that released mid 2007. Most of the tracks are new tunes and only a few were on the EP but the same style runs throughout the album with its upbeat energy, sing-along melodies and bouncy piano fun. Any band that can pull this piano rock off relies heavily on their lead vocalist and Jukebox The Ghost is not different because Ben Thronwell can hit the high notes out of the Freddie Mercury playbook while controlling the pace of the band with a perfect balance of lightheartedness that makes each track enjoyable. What makes Let Live And Let Ghosts truly work is that it is musically and lyrically plush with catchy moments that are instantly memorable that gets better with every spin. Jukebox The Ghost is a unique and talented band that really is on a branch by themselves that will win you over after just one listen.

Key Tracks: "Hold It In", "Under My Skin", "Where Are All The Scientists Now?"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ben Folds Five
Queen
Vampire Weekend

Jukebox The Ghost MySpace
The Rebel Group

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

South: You Are Here

South
You Are Here
Bluhammock Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: May not be their strongest but still an enjoyable listen.

Album Review:
Sometimes when you get to your fifth album there is a hard decision to make. You can move in the similar direction that has taken your band this far or go down another path of more experimentation which is always risky for fear of alienating a fanbase. Both paths can lead to success but what if you get stuck in the middle? That is how I feel about South’s new album You Are Here. You can find their staple elegant sounding material in the perfectly quiet “Every Light Has Blown” and the true to form vocals of Jamie McDonald are still present. But as an album, You Are Here suffers from its transitions because where the band before has always presented itself as an album band, South finds themselves tweaking track to track that offers solid singles but also includes a handful of throwaways. Mostly the different sounding tracks like my least favorite “She’s Half Crazy” has a dance bounce to it that just does not fit the band while on “Balloons”, the South layered harmony kicks in that is completely infectious, only for the song to end at 31 seconds. It is the moments like these that make You Are Here frustrating because it just doesn't seem like the South I know and enjoy. Overall You Are Here is not a bad album and still has many moments that fans will adore; it is just that I hold the bar up high for this typically consistent and classy band which they did not quite get all the way across this time out.

Key Tracks: "Better Things", "There Goes Your Life", "Every Light Has Blown"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Doves
Elbow
Snow Patrol

Official South Website
South MySpace
South Info [Allmusic]
Bluhammock Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Tokyo Police Club: Elephant Shell

Tokyo Police Club
Elephant Shell
Saddle Creek Records [2008]









Fire Note Says: Band shifts gears with debut record.

Album Review:
It is not like Elephant Shell was on Chinese Democracy’s timeline but the anticipation for Tokyo Police Club’s debut record has been going on since the band’s ripfire A Lesson In Crime EP dropped in the later part of 2006. Since then, they released another EP last year on Paper Bag Records before making their long player debut with Saddle Creek. Since that time, Tokyo Police Club definitely have a more emo vibe to them then their Strokes like debut with intricate lyrical wordplays and mid-tempo numbers that you can hum along to. There are moments that you can shout out to, such as on the more rocking “Your English Is Good” and songs that make you want to hit repeat that sound better with every spin. In this case, the timeline works for the band because had this album released last year I would tell you I would have felt a bit underwhelmed because it is really different from the higher octane of their previous work. With that said Tokyo Police Club shows off that they are a young band that is still finding out who they are and is comfortable as their sound morphs into different genres. Elephant Shell still retains their short and precise tracks and overall is very consistent, which I believe will lead Tokyo Police Club to even better albums in the future – we just need to change our mindset of who they really are!

Key Tracks: "Graves", "Sixties Remake", "Listen To The Math"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Death Cab For Cutie
Modest Mouse
The Decemberists

Tokyo Police Club: A Lesson In Crime EP [Fire Note Review 12/4/06]

Official Tokyo Police Club Website
Tokyo Police Club MySpace
Tokyo Police Club Info [Allmusic]
Saddle Creek Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox