Jack's Mannequin: The Glass Passenger

Jack's Mannequin
The Glass Passenger
Warner Bros./Sire Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: A positive and energetic step forward!

Album Review:
Former leader of Something Corporate, Andrew McMahon left in 2004 and launched Jack's Mannequin the next year with a more Cali-pop piano driven album Everything In Transit [2005]. Transit was well received but McMahon was diagnosed with leukemia two months before the album's release, and a series of chemotherapy treatments prevented him from supporting the record with a proper tour. Fast forward three years and a now cancer free McMahon is back strong as ever with The Glass Passenger. During his healing process he discovered some classic artist like Fleetwood Mac, The Byrds, and Neil Young which is reflected throughout the record with more emphasis on the band supporting his piano playing then a piano driven album. This whole vibe carries well in The Glass Passenger making many songs like "Spinnning" shine with a power pop rock likeness that is catchy and likable. McMahon wins you over with his superb vocals and strong thoughtful lyrics that keep you coming back whether it is a simple ballad or an upbeat rocker that are made for TV and radio. Jack's Mannequin has put forth a record that lives up to the anticipation and is worth checking out when it hits stores today.

Key Tracks: "Crashin", "The Resolution", "The Drop Out - The So Unknown"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Dashboard Confessional
The Fray
Jimmy Eat World

Official Jack's Mannequin Website
Jack's Mannequin MySpace
Jack's Mannequin Info [Allmusic]
Sire Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

John Eichleay: John Eichleay

John Eichleay
John Eichleay
Copper Beech Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
The eponymous debut album by New York musician John Eichleay is a simple lesson what a solid voice, lyric and melody can do that will draw you in immediately. Eichleay started out on classical guitar but has explored everything from blues and funk to jazz and bluegrass. In 1997 he moved to Chicago to attend DePaul University, where he became friends with guitarist Alfonso Ponticelli and played the Chicago Jazz Festival. His album shows off his experience as it is just a solid, catchy and smart Beatlesque record.

Key Track: "Friends And Family"

Band With Similar Fire: Jonathan Richman

Friends And Family (mp3)
Yesterdays (mp3)

Official John Eichleay Website
John Eichleay MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Girl Talk: Feed The Animals

Girl Talk
Feed The Animals
Illegal Art Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
An artist that is considered a mash-up maker like Girl Talk (aka Greg Gillis) can go really well or really bad. When it goes really well there ain't nothin' better and Girl Talk's sophomore album Feed The Animals is a great follow up to the entertaining Night Ripper [2006]. Girl Talk represents a modern day mix master that has the ability to tie snippets together featuring Jay Z, Avril, Tears For Fears, Britney and Radiohead, to just name a few, into one satisfying beat boppin' record that takes life on its own!

Key Track: "Give Me A Beat"

Band With Similar Fire: The Avalanches

Girl Talk MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Unwritten Law: Live And Lawless

Unwritten Law
Live And Lawless
Suburban Noize Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Before you write this off please try to remember the total skate-punk roots of this band and that they had some pretty rocking stuff in their catalog. This was recorded last March in Hollywood and has a solid setlist that covers plenty of the early stuff with the intensity of a revived punk outfit. This release also includes a DVD that features a five song acoustic mini set that couldn't fit on the CD.

Key Track: "Teenage Suicide"

Band With Similar Fire: Face To Face

Official Unwritten Law Website
Unwritten Law MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Ani DiFranco: Red Letter Year

Ani DiFranco
Red Letter Year
Righteous Babe Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: New perspective on life drives upbeat but relaxed album!

Album Review:
It is a shame that a prolific artist like Ani DiFranco is still not a household name when her albums release. Her fan following is an artists dream and Red Letter Year will not disappoint them but will appeal to many new listeners based on its strength. Over the course of the last two years, Red Letter Year has developed into an album that celebrates existence, motherhood, profession of love, and still reflects a solid point of Ani's views. The birth of her daughter has put Ani in a relaxed and content state of mind and it shows with the joyous hooks that circulate throughout the record. Co-producing the record is her partner Mike Napolitano (Joseph Arthur, Twilight Singers) backed by a myriad of of solid musicians and a touring band that practically play each others notes. Something fans will notice immediately about the sound on Red Letter Year is that songs pop off at the listener with their production and more expressive beats that make feet tappin' and singing along a must. Not that she needs it but Red Letter Year really does have the potential to break Ani out into a more mainstream audience because as always, lyrically it is a strong record but musically it is one of her most accessible and catchy records to date.

Key Tracks: "Emancipated Minor", "Red Letter Year", "Star Matter"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Michelle Shocked
Joni Mitchell
Suzanne Vega

Emancipated Minor (mp3)

Official Ani DiFranco Website
Ani DiFranco MySpace
Ani DiFranco Info [Allmusic]
Righteous Babe Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Tom Morello - The Nightwatchman: The Fabled City

Tom Morello: The Nightwatchman
The Fabled City
Epic Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Best known as the guitarist in Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave, Tom Morello releases his second solo record under the Nightwatchman moniker. The Fabled City is a superb different side of Morello that has not been heard before as politics fall to the side and songs concentrate on his more recent life experiences that had deep impact such as the death of seven close family and friends. The style is also different from his band albums because of Morello's deep and commanding voice that leads the listener through each song and really showcase what a good songwriter and storyteller he is.

Key Track: "Whatever It Takes"

Band With Similar Fire: Nick Cave

Official Tom Morello Website
Tom Morello MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

TV On The Radio: Dear Science

TV On The Radio
Dear Science
4AD Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: TVOTR delivers again with another top album of the year candidate!

Album Review:
Coming off the critically hailed Return To Cookie Mountain [2006] it would be hard for TV On The Radio to top the effort and before hearing Dear Science I figured that it would be good but just ok good not OMFG good! Well it is the later of the two goods and the formula for killer success is really simple - vocals. Not only do the songs on Dear Science fit a little better into their structures and have a crisper produced sound but there seems to be much more focus on Kyp Malone's and Tunde Adepimbe's vocals than on their earlier records. This small difference grabs the listener by the ear and does not allow them to drift off so much into the atmospheric trippy side of TVOTR but forces them to stick around and enjoy the party. And I must tell you - this is a party you don't want to miss. Each song combines the bands musical tools of choice and pushes them to their limits supported by heavy beat lines and catchy melodies that before may have faded away but here TVOTR stays in your head after the album is done. The only action to be taken after completion is hitting repeat because Dear Science is an album that should open the band up to an even wider audience and is solid from Track 1 to Track 11 while really creating a soundtrack for our time!

Key Tracks: "Crying", "Red Dress", "Golden Age"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Beck
Peter Gabriel
The Beta Band

TV On The Radio: Return To Cookie Mountain [Fire Note Review 7/12/06]

Official TV On The Radio Website
TV On The Radio MySpace
TV On The Radio Info [Allmusic]
4AD Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Kings Of Leon: Only By The Night

Kings Of Leon
Only By The Night
RCA Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Made for the big stage.

Album Review:
After three albums and the more rock based big sound of last years Because Of The Times [2007] it is no real surprise that on Kings Of Leon's fourth release Only By The Night that the group continues their journey into bigger production and sound. I must say that the slow burning opening track "Closer" sets a great stage with its keyboard backdrops and Caleb Followill’s desperate vocals leaving you wanting more. You get more of this slow churn with the next track "Crawl" and the very U2ish first single "Sex On Fire". The rest of the record follows the same sequence and vibe as each song builds within itself into made for stadium choruses and sprawling vocals. Only By The Night is not a bad record but I do feel that it has put the band into more of a hold pattern then pushing forward and making their statement because it has lost that energy and spunk that the first couple records possessed. If the band can find that substance that was in the early albums and combine it with their bigger sound then I believe Kings Of Leon can be the band that everyone wants to hear!

Key Tracks: "Closer", "Sex On Fire", "Be Somebody"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Whigs
U2
The Strokes

Kings Of Leon: Because Of The Times [Fire Note Review 4/3/07]

Official Kings Of Leon Website
Kings Of Leon MySpace
Kings Of Leon Info [Allmusic]
RCA Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

I Set My Friends On Fire: You Can't Spell Slaughter Without Laughter

I Set My Friends On Fire
You Can't Spell Slaughter Without Laughter
Epitaph Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
This duo from Miami are set to release one of the more unique records you will hear this year on Oct 7 for Epitaph that is a real mix of electronic, hardcore and pop packed into 35 minutes. Miami teenagers, Nabil Moo and Matt Mihana became an overnight hit with a rock/screamo cover of Soulja Boy's "Crank Dat", which attracted over 50,000 plays per day on MySpace, then they caught the attention of Epitaph label owner Brett Gurewitz. Their style and approach are unique to the genre while still being catchy plus Matt can really sing, which all combine for a memorable experience.

You Can't Spell Slaughter Without Laughter
I Set My Friends On Fire

MFOF is Matt Mihana (vocals/lyrics) and Nabil Moo
(instruments/programming/arrangements/backup vocals)

All songs written by Matt Mihana and Nabil Moo, except "Crank That", written by Deandre Way

Published by I Set My Friends On Fire, LLC (ASCAP) / Fig Music (ASCAP) except "Crank That", published by Croomstacular Music, Inc. (BMI) / Soulja Boy Tellem Music (BMI)

Produced by Travis Richter & Nabil Moo

Engineered & Mixed by Lee Dyess at Earthsound Recording, Valdosta, GA

Mastered by Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound, New York, NY

Management: Kamal Moo

Legal Representation: Sally Koenig, Koenig Law Offices

A&R: Brett Gurewitz

Product Manager: Jeff Abarta

ISMFOF would like to thank Brett, Lee, Travis, Sue, Jeff, Nick, Austin, Mike, Jason and the rest of the rest of the Epitaph crew, Kamal, Sally, Andrew and Jackie Moo, Atif Mehana and Lillian Abraham, Candace, Lauren, Chico The Murderous Penguin, Ruby R., Sheisa, Gio, Brittany, Brandon, Damien, Jovan "The Mummy" Johnson, Natalie, Aunt Ivy, Anthony AF, Ashley P. Contessa Brewer, Peter Neubacker, Katoktak, Sauron, Jacques The Octopus, Sonic, Macadoos, Steve Jobs, Steve Busch, Myspace, our Myspace fans (and ALL our fans!) We love you!

Key Track: "Things That Rhyme With Orange"

Band With Similar Fire: Silverstein

Official I Set My Friends On Fire Website
I Set My Friends On Fire MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Alkaline Trio: Agony & Irony

Alkaline Trio
Agony & Irony
Epic Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
It took awhile but Alkaline Trio finally made the jump into major label land with Agony & Irony and although the record sounds a bit more polished it still has some remaining parts of the goth punk we loved from these guys. The album has some highs and lows but overall has consistent punk pop formulas. Hardcore fans may scream sellout but there are still catchy songs and a bit of snarl left in Alkaline Trio that followers will still recognize - I just wish the claws would have come out a bit more!

Key Track: "In Vein"

Band With Similar Fire: Less Than Jake

Official Alkaline Trio Website
Alkaline Trio MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Circus Devils: ATAXIA

Circus Devils
ATAXIA
Happy Jack Rock Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: Eclectically catchy!

Album Review:
The Circus Devils have always enjoyed the backseat as one of Robert Pollard's longest running side projects with the Tobias brothers Todd and Tim. On last years release Sgt. Disco [2007] we found the band really emerging and becoming its own identity with more of a focus. What happens on ATAXIA is simply called busting out and leaving no doubt that this is a band! Everything is still here that make this a Circus Devils record like the weird noises in "Nets At Every Angle " or the echoing vocals on "I-Razors" but all of the transitions from track to track work together and succeed in making ATAXIA the groups most cohesive and accessible album to date. Don't get me wrong - there are no soaring choruses or harmonies filling the air but even though the song structures are chopped up - they are chopped up with precision almost like Bob, Todd and Tim are true surgeons of noise. ATAXIA is also filled with heavy riffs, guitars and drums that are set as the backdrop to Pollard's vocals that each create an edge, swagger and fever that has never been around with the Circus Devils before. This is a good thing that gives ATAXIA a bigger rock feel instead of an another experiment. ATAXIA also brings back the tradition of releasing the album on Halloween (10/31/08) like the groups first three records so get ready to turn your volume up and don't worry about asking yourself if you are ready for a trick or treat because you are going to get both!

Key Tracks: "I-Razors", "The Girls Will Make It Happen", "Get Me Extra!"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Minutemen
Devo
Frank Zappa

Circus Devils: Sgt. Disco [Fire Note Review 9/17/07]

Official Circus Devils Website
Circus Devils MySpace
Circus Devils Info [Allmusic]
Official Robert Pollard Website
Happy Jack Rock Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

These United States: Crimes

These United States
Crimes
United Interests Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
When you hear that a band has recorded their sophomore record in six days and that same band just released their debut last year you know it can only go two ways and there is no in-between. For These United States it went the good way because Crimes is more focused and consistent then their debut. These United States are able to find the balance between knowing when to turn it up so they are a killer bar band or keep it under control with layered melodies that simply make Crimes a solid and fun record to listen to.

Key Track: "Get Yourself Home"

Band With Similar Fire: Langhorne Slim

Get Yourself Home (mp3)
West Won (mp3)

Official These United States Website
These United States MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Shaky Hands: Lunglight

The Shaky Hands
Lunglight
Kill Rock Stars [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Lunglight is The Shaky Hands sophomore record and the first thing you will notice is that their mood has changed somewhat from the upbeat young band to a band that is still developing their sound and diving into darker spaces. The band now has some extra musical help expanding to a quintet while dabbling into some more psychedelic numbers like "Neighbors". Lastly even though Lunglight is lyrically tighter and more introspective there are still plenty of upbeat number like "Settle On" to retain early fans and give The Shaky Hands a balance that will lead to longevity.

Key Track: "Air Better Come"

Band With Similar Fire: Talking Heads

A New Parade (mp3)
We Are Young (mp3)

The Shaky Hands MySpace

Buy at Amazon

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Robyn Hitchcock: Luminous Groove [Box Set]

Robyn Hitchcock
Luminous Groove [Box Set]
Yep Roc Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
This retrospective from Robyn Hitchcock is a 90 song five disc set that covers his more rock period with Egyptians. The albums included are Fegmania! (1985), Element Of Light (1986), and Gotta Let This Hen Out! (1985) plus two exclusive bonus discs entitled Bad Case Of History which features previously unreleased studio recordings, including the final 1994 sessions, and a CD of unheard live material. If you are fan of Hitchcock's work this set is a must but also Luminous Groove could be a great starting point for individuals that want to hear some of his best work because it will certainly make them investigate more of his catalog based on the strength of these three albums!

Official Robyn Hitchcock Website
Robyn Hitchcock MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Mercury Rev: Snowflake Midnight

Mercury Rev
Snowflake Midnight
Yep Roc Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: The deconstruction of Mercury Rev!

Album Review:
First off - if you were looking for Mercury Rev to rekindle the spirit of the now classic Deserter's Songs [1998] I will let you know that Snowflake Midnight is not it. This may either make you quit reading, scratch your head, or really peak your interest. For longtime fans of the band it is no surprise that Mercury Rev continues to manipulate their sound for each release and since 2005's Secret Migration received less than warm reviews Snowflake Midnight is a real test of strength. It would have been easy to return to Deserter's sound but taking Migration to the next level is the direction the band took on Midnight with swirling atmospheres, even more computerized collaboration and a complete release of song structures. Even with the "free" vibe of Snowflake Midnight the album feels completely focused and in the bands control with lead vocalist Jonathan Donahue interweaving his theoretical lyrics which push and guide each track where they need to be. There is no doubt that Snowflake Midnight will be loved by some and hated by others but Mercury Rev does not care because if you threw out their discography and simply rate the music as a mostly electronic sound scape band with spaced out rock songs, you would rank them pretty high because even a new direction for Mercury Rev is still a pretty good listen.

(As a bonus, when you purchase the CD or the double LP of Snowflake Midnight next week it comes with a download card for Strange Attractor, a full-length instrumental companion album which was not available for review.)

Key Tracks: "Faraway From Cars", "Senses On Fire", "Butterfly's Wing"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Radiohead
The Flaming Lips
High Places

Snowflake In A Hot World (mp3)

Official Mercury Rev Website
Mercury Rev MySpace
Mercury Rev Info [Allmusic]
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Joshua James: The Sun Is Always Brighter

Joshua James
The Sun Is Always Brighter
Intelligent Noise Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Joshua James debut album The Sun Is Always Brighter is another example of the strong singer/songwriter types that don't get the airplay they deserve. His subject matter is deep from the war in Iraq, a song about his younger brother's drug addiction and even the Holocaust but his delivery is effortless and appealing. He has already opened for the likes of David Gray and John Mayer, which his style fits right in and his songs could easily find their way onto television or radio with their memorable choruses and Joshua's soft but direct vocals.

Key Track: "The New Love Song"

Band With Similar Fire: Bon Iver

Official Joshua James Website
Joshua James MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

I See Hawks In L.A.: Hallowed Ground

I See Hawks In L.A.
Hallowed Ground
Big Book Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
If you were looking for a rocked up country tinged band that is politically and socially charged then I See Hawks In L.A. could be your new favorite band. On the Los Angeles groups fourth album Hallowed Ground they continue their message on tracks like "Carbon Dated Love" and "Environmental Children Of The Future". They have a solid band vibe that kicks each track up with their vocal harmonies while mellowing them out a perfect slide guitar and violin that gives the tracks the right balance between genres and will attract new fans in the correct forum!

Key Track: "In The Garden"

Band With Similar Fire: Son Volt

Official I See Hawks In L.A. Website
I See Hawks In L.A. MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

ZZ Top: Eliminator [Collector's Edition]

ZZ Top
Eliminator [Collector's Edition]
Warner Bros. Records [1983; re:2008]
(CD/DVD Set)






Fire Drills Review:
This is your chance if you were too young to remember how MTV used to play videos and how cool it was to cruise along with the ZZ Top car! This 25 anniversary edition has been remastered with seven bonus tracks which all sound great along with a DVD that has all the award winning videos plus live footage from the Eliminator tour. There is nothing like cranking up some "Sharp Dressed Man", "Gimmie All Your Lovin", "TV Diners" and "Legs" to get whatever you got cookin' started!

Key Track: "Legs (Live)"

Official ZZ Top Website
ZZ Top MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Jenny Lewis: Acid Tongue

Jenny Lewis
Acid Tongue
Warner Bros. Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: This is Jenny Lewis - Get to know her already!

Album Review:
I believe the saying goes that you can't keep a good woman down and that's exactly what we get with Jenny Lewis's second solo record Acid Tongue. Including last years excellent Rilo Kiley release Under The Blacklight [2007] this is Lewis's third recording output in three years. I bring this up because although Acid Tongue is all Lewis it really is a superb combo of her debut solo record soul displayed in Rabbit Fur Coat [2006] and contains the peppiness of Moonlight while having a solid balance of styles and substance. This solo thing not only gives her and outlet to experiment a bit like the almost 9 minute "The Next Messiah" but also gives Lewis the opportunity to invite all of her friends and she invites them all with boyfriend Johnathan Rice, M Ward, Chris Robinson (of The Black Crowes), Benji Hughes, Zooey Deschanel (of She & Him) & Vanessa Corbala (of Whispertown2000) all lending a hand. Lewis also gets a return favor from Elvis Costello and some of his Imposters for contributing some vocals to his latest record as he duets on the catchy rocker "Carpetbaggers". Acid Tongue is a progression in Lewis's career and just like last years Rilo Kiley record, it is very slickly produced and sounds poised, pure and sophisticated. Even with this sound it still feels very loose because Jenny's vocals are so warming and friendly that they just invite you in to stay and the killer production and catchiness makes you never want to leave!

Key Tracks: "See Fernando", "Black Sand", "Carpetbaggers"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Neko Case
Bonnie Raitt
Kate Bush

Acid Tongue (mp3)

Jenny Lewis: Rabbit Fur Coat [Fire Note Review 4/11/06]

Official Jenny Lewis Website
Jenny Lewis MySpace
Jenny Lewis Info [Allmusic]
Warner Bros. Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Sonya Kitchell: This Storm

Sonya Kitchell
This Storm
Decca/Velour Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I know people love to jump on bandwagon's and I am suggesting a new one in the young 19 year old Sonya Kitchell. Given her younger age it might be a surprise that this is not her first album but along with her seasoned veteran sounding voice it will make you a believer and forget about birthdays. This Storm was produced by Grammy Award-winner Malcolm Burn (Peter Gabriel, Emmylou Harris), and it offers a rock, country and alt-pop side to Kitchell, that showcases her multi-talented vocals.

Key Track: "Here To There"

Band With Similar Fire: Fiona Apple

Official Sonya Kitchell Website
Sonya Kitchell MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Sound And Fury: Sound And Fury

Sound And Fury
Sound And Fury
Rebel Youth Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I am not sure why I even put this record on - I mean look at the cover - really? For whatever reason it ended up in my player and I must admit these Canadian rockers made me smile. Sound And Fury are a modern day AC/DC that have a little punk underlining snarl to them that all makes for an entertaining, rip-roaring, beer guzzling and plain kick your ass type of record - trust me - I know it has a scary cover but prepare to rock out!

Key Track: "Can't Get Enough"

Band With Similar Fire: AC/DC

Official Sound And Fury Website
Sound And Fury MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Sing It Loud: Come Around

Sing It Loud
Come Around
Epitaph Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Sometimes record labels have a hard time shaking stereotypes and for me Epitaph is a punk label. Sing It Loud is more of an alt pop rock band that was produced by Motion City Soundtrack guitarist Josh Cain and mixed by Mark Trombino (Jimmy Eat World, Blink 182) and has the same sound as the bands listed. Overall, Come Around is not a bad debut and although Sing It Loud blend in with many acts already out there, if played in the right venue this band could catch on because as singles the tracks may be more memorable.

Key Track: "No One Can Touch Us"

Band With Similar Fire: Motion City Soundtrack

Sing It Loud MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Blitzen Trapper: Furr

Blitzen Trapper
Furr
Sub Pop Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Picking up where they left off - That's a good thing!

Album Review:
Furr is Portland's Blitzen Trapper's fourth album and first for major indie Sub Pop. It's release quickly follows last years critically hailed Wild Mountain Nation [2007], so seeing what direction this eclectic band took is just half of the anticipation. The leadoff track "Sleepytime In The Western World" is a throwback jangly track with a huge chorus that feels like it is out of the 70's and off the newest Elton John record, which makes for a terrific start up to a stellar album. What made Wild Mountain so fun was its quick jump in styles and Furr maintains the same composure and balances a pop Americana flavor but remains totally indie. This is a much harder achievement to pull off but Blitzen Trapper handle it with ease. One focused talent of the band is lead vocalist Eric Earley's likable vocals and the supporting piano that rings throughout Furr. It was just a simple warped piano found in the hallway one day but it became the warhorse upon which Earley wrote and recorded much of Furr on and it really rings out in front on songs “Not Your Lover” and “Echo.” The end result for Blitzen Trapper is another great album in the bands catalog and like last years indie jem that was Wild Mountain Nation - Furr will easily be one of my faves for this year.

Key Tracks: "Furr", "Sleepytime In The Western World", "Saturday Nite"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Okkervil River
Early Elton
The Shins

Official Blitzen Trapper Website
Blitzen Trapper MySpace
Blitzen Trapper Info [Allmusic]
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Subways: All Or Nothing

The Subways
All Or Nothing
Warner Bros. Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
I don't think you can call 10-13 years retro but The Subways have a very post-grunge sound that simply plays great over the loudspeakers and could fit into a 1997 playlist. Their high energy of combo alt rock bounces with hooks like an Oasis album but rocks harder more like the Smashing Pumpkins. It also won't surprise you that Butch Vig (Nirvana, Garbage) produced the record which simply is the perfect fit for their style and swagger giving The Subways sophomore effort All Or Nothing that extra appeal.

Key Track: "Girls & Boys"

Band With Similar Fire: Ash

Official Subways Website
The Subways MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Chris Cotton: The Big Sea

Chris Cotton
The Big Sea
Little Fish Large Pond [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
If you are looking for a change of pace then folk blues artist Chris Cotton's fourth album The Big Sea could be your fix. Cotton's music is hard for people to categorize but if Leadbelly and Tom Waits could do an album together that might be close. The Big Sea is a solid listen all the way through because you can just tell that Cotton has poured everything into it and regardless of how you categorize him the album grabs hold of you and really does fit in a shuffle playlist with all of your indie friends!

Key Track: "Heartbreaking Mind"

Band With Similar Fire: Tom Waits w/ the Blues

Going Home (mp3)
What Would You Do? (mp3)

Official Chris Cotton Website
Chris Cotton MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

31Knots: Worried Well

31Knots
Worried Well
Polyvinyl Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:

31Knots fall into that math-rock category and Worried Well is their new album that follows closely to last years growler The Days And Nights Of Everything Anywhere [2007]. Worried Well puts lead singer Joe Haege right in front and lets him lead the ripping till his voice goes slightly hoarse on several tracks which just stirs most of the record into a frenzy. Worried Well does not expand the bands sound but maintains their essence giving the listener another album of complex and textured tracks that have multi-instruments, hand claps and shout out choruses which fans should enjoy.

Key Track: "Something Up There This Way Comes"

Band With Similar Fire: Firewater

Official 31Knots Website
31Knots MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Koufax: Strugglers

Koufax
Strugglers
Doghouse Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Koufax adds another quality album to their catalog!

Album Review:
I must admit that I was pretty excited to cover the fourth album from Koufax that drops next week titled Strugglers. It is not that Koufax are some superior status but their previous output has been what I call "smart indie" and has never disappointed with its sophisticated and memorable wordplay. Their music has a swagger to it that much like Spoon that tells interesting stories and keeps you coming back with tidy tempo changes. Strugglers finds the band 3 years since Hard Times Are In Fashion [2005] and lead crooner Robert Suchan has his supporting cast back in the band but now has him calling Prague his home. This living arrangement influenced Strugglers by Suchan taking a view of the US from his Czech landscape. This environment freed him to really express his feelings both politically and socially, while still crafting 10 tracks of rockin' indie pop. Strugglers is not Koufax's best album in their catalog but it is a solid welcome back to the scene and has enough catchy moments to keep you interested, especially if you are a fan of their previous work!

Key Tracks: "Any Moment Now", "Roll The Dice", "Strugglers"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Strokes
Vampire Weekend
Spoon

Koufax MySpace
Koufax Info [Allmusic]
Doghouse Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The Youngers: Heritage

The Youngers
Heritage
Obuck Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
The Youngers represent what real Americana music is all about - solid sing-a-long anthems, solid songwriting, solid stories and a solid and believable lead vocal. The Youngers are entrenched in the authenticity of their music even down to having their sophomore record Heritage produced by John Carter Cash and recorded in the historic studios of Cash Cabin. The band has released an excellent album that kindles the best of Springsteen, Young and Parsons while setting their own path and tackling the genre with a modern flare!

Key Track: "Heritage"

Band With Similar Fire: Drive-By Truckers

Official Youngers Website
The Youngers MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Greg Camp: Defektor

Greg Camp
Defektor
Bar/None Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Greg Camp's introduction is easy - he was the guitarist and Grammy nominated songwriter for the band Smash Mouth. Defektor is his solo debut and it is full of different ideas and styles that can be as straightforward rock as Costello but also contains some record trickery like Beck. I am not sure if anything here will find the same commercial success as his previous band but the quality of penmanship and work is still in high gear, which makes Defektor a worthy listen that might capture a whole new audience for Camp!

Key Track: "Cat's Game"

Band With Similar Fire: Jason Falkner

Greg Camp MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Mason Proper: Olly Oxen Free

Mason Proper
Olly Oxen Free
Dovecote Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
The sophomore record from Mason Proper finds the band continuing its angular sound to create 10 tracks at middle tempo that experiment with different instruments and directions to generate one cohesive album. It are the different directions that make Olly Oxen Free so interesting because songs take sharp turns when you don't expect them to, which takes your average song and turns it into a keeper. How the tracks work together is important because the albums strength is really the collective because there are no immediate standout singles but when the album completes you still find yourself going back for another dose!

Key Track: "Point A To Point B"

Band With Similar Fire: Les Savy Fav

Official Mason Proper Website
Mason Proper MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Starling Electric: Clouded Staircase

Starling Electric
Clouded Staircase
Bar/None Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: A 2nd chance for Starling Electric!

Album Review:
Sometimes re-releases make sense and in the case of Ann Arbor's Starling Electric, Bar/None has given the 2006 self-released album new life for a wider audience, which many will be thankful for. What the group brings to the table is a knack for memorable melodies, killer harmonies and creating perfect pop nuggets of a timeless attraction that would work on albums going back as far as The Beach Boys or landing on one of the Guided By Voices discs. It is also not as much the bands sound that is appealing as it is the way Clouded Staircase strategically arranges and blends the music so it is one piece of work rather than 18 individual tracks. There are plenty of rockers like lead off track "The St. Valentines Day Massacre" along with simple and solid 2 minute numbers like "New Era" that are quick and equally enjoyable. For the band, Starling Electric probably feels like this is old news as they keep promoting their album but for everyone else this should be treated as a new record and build some hype for a follow up because we like what we are hearing!

Key Tracks: "The St. Valentine's Day Massacre", "Camp-Fire", "To Flunker, With Love"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Zombies
Guided By Voices
The Posies

Official Starling Electric Website
Starling Electric MySpace
Starling Electirc Info [Allmusic]
Bar/None Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Dead Confederate: Wrecking Ball

Dead Confederate
Wrecking Ball
TAO/Razor & Tie Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
This debut full length was on our most anticipated list for 2008 after the release of the bands stellar EP at the end of last year got us all crazy with excitement. Wrecking Ball absolutely does not disappoint and it is a sprawling southern rock out record that is just as every bit as catchy as the EP with Dead Confederate's unique style of growling spaced out rock. From the opening rocker "Heavy Petting" to the killer closer title track Dead Confederate have released an album that just gets better with every spin and has one of those timeless appeals to it that all bands dream of making!

Key Track: "Wrecking Ball"

Band With Similar Fire: The Whigs

Dead Confederate: Dead Confederate EP [Fire Note Review 12/14/07]

Official Dead Confederate Website
Dead Confederate MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

FOX: Japan Hell

FOX Japan
Hell
Small War Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Hell is FOX Japan's sophomore record and it is full of super energized tracks that sound like Pavement on steroids. It is singer Charlie Wilmoth that leads the charge with his Ted Leo "nothing can stop me attitude", which carries each track to a new level. The band supports this direction and backs it up with feverish playing making Hell a worthy listen if you are looking for something new and different when the album becomes available in October!

Key Track: "Divorce"

Band With Similar Fire: Ted Leo + The Pharmacists

Kill Them With Kindness (mp3)

FOX Japan: And Now This! [Fire Note Review 8/14/07]

Official FOX Japan Website
FOX Japan MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Shannon McArdle: Summer Of The Whore

Shannon McArdle
Summer Of The Whore
Bar/None Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Shannon McArdle brings a lot of experience to the table even though the name may be somewhat unfamiliar. McArdle was a long time member of The Mendoza Line and left the band last year along with divorcing from band member Timothy Bracy, so her solo release Summer Of The Whore marks a new beginning for the seasoned artist. It is an album that has her emotions completely exposed, which hits you to the core because it feels so real and makes the perfect concoction for something special.

Key Track: "Paint The Walls"

Band With Similar Fire: Eleni Mandell

Official Shannon McArdle Website
Shannon McArdle MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Boston Spaceships: Brown Submarine

Boston Spaceships
Brown Submarine
GBV Inc. Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: A enthusiastic Pollard revisits his inner youth!

Album Review:
Brown Submarine is the debut album from another Robert Pollard vehicle called Boston Spaceships and this time Chris Slusarenko (Takeovers, GBV) and John Moen (Decemberists, Elliott Smith) are on board for the creative output. Like every Pollard band, Boston Spaceships has its own style and swagger but mostly borrows from the kindled spirits of some great lighthearted Brit pop-punk. Brown Submarine is fun, alive, humorous, and goes along way with some cheap American lager such as Bud, Rolling Rock or MGD. You might think that the description calls for instant cut out bin but not so fast. Humor has always went a long way in the multitude of Pollard tracks plus having the experienced indie guys Slusarenko and drummer Moen as part of your trio, only pushes the quality of Brown Submarine upward. One constant is that the Pollard technique is in full force on Brown Submarine with clever melded lyrics that grab your attention such as the line "Confesses she likes Guns n Roses, - says Axl's alright" in the catchy "Two Girl Area". The music just simply brings you back to when times were simple and all you worried about was what party you were going to hit that evening. At the end of the day Boston Spaceships is a fun offering from Pollard and should be picked up by any fan of his work because lets face it - everyone needs a little of the good BS is their day!

Key Tracks: "You Satisfy Me", "Two Girl Area", "Psych Threat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Who
The dB's
Cheap Trick

Official Boston Spaceships Website
Boston Spaceships MySpace
Official Robert Pollard Website

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Metallica: Death Magnetic

Metallica
Death Magnetic
Warner Bros. Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
For any veteran band calling on producer Rick Rubin to help revive your roots always seems to be a good idea. After the debacle that was St. Anger [2003] that call was one of the most important because Death Magnetic finds Metallica more energized than ever before and successful in resurrecting the power from their 80's era catalog. Interestingly enough, even with most tracks surpassing the 7 minute mark they still have some of the catchy choruses that made the "Black" Album [1991] so successful, while absolutely assaulting and crunching you with Hammett's guitar fire. Turns out this is the Metallica we want - this is the Metallica that is important!

Key Track: "Cyanide"

Band With Similar Fire: Old School Metallica

Official Metallica Website
Metallica MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Week That Was:The Week That Was

The Week That Was
The Week That Was
Memphis Industries [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
If you were a fan of the band Field Music then The Week That Was should be on your list to check out because this is the new output from drummer Peter Brewis. He also employed the help of Field Music members David Brewis and Andrew Moore which really makes The Week That Was an extension of the former band while offering more complex song structures, intricate piano arrangements, background horn placement and an overall prog rock approach. The Week That Was music direction follows some of the more experimental artists of past such as Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel, while keeping most of their tracks around the 3 and 4 minute mark and really offering something outside the conventions of most indie-guitar music.

Key Track: "Yesterday's Paper"

Band With Similar Fire: XTC

Learn To Learn (mp3)

The Week That Was MySpace

Buy at mTraks

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Broken West: Now Or Heaven

The Broken West
Now Or Heaven
Merge Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
On The Broken West's sophomore record Now Or Heaven, the band tweaks with their sound a bit and presents a different side that we have not heard before. Their debut was a more upbeat and hook filled album that had the pop sensibilities of Teenage Fanclub and the song structure of Wilco but here we find most of that style stripped down and more subdued. The end result is that The Broken West are talented song writers so the tracks are solid it is just a different vibe from them that takes a couple listens to get used to but overall will still hold your interest.

Key Track: "Auctioneer"

Band With Similar Fire: The Walkmen

The Broken West: I Can't Go On, I'll Go On [Fire Note Review 1/31/07]

Official Broken West Website
The Broken West MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Power Out @ The Fire Note

Hey readers - just a quick FYI that our home office has been without power since yesterday due to some massive wind storms with no solution in sight - we are doing our best to keep reviews posting this week but there might be some delay. Just keep checking back!

The New Year: The New Year

The New Year
The New Year
Touch & Go Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: One of the Kadane brothers best efforts yet!

Album Review:
If you didn't see the huge welcome back fireworks for The New Year it is probably because there wasn't one. The Kadane brothers Matt and Bubba have been releasing quality indie albums over the last 20 years first as the slowcore band Bedhead and now in there present vehicle The New Year. It has been four years since their last record The End Is Near [2004] and right down to the plain album cover their self-titled third album picks right up where they left off. It is almost like they ease their way back into the scene on lead off track "Folios" because it is a strumming instrumental track for 3:40 until the group vocals kick in for the last 1:20 of the track leaving you with anticipated excitement for what is next. It is this nonchalant approach that makes The New Year so addictive because they don't try to be. Collectively the band uses this tactic throughout the record where the simple sung verse explodes into a chorus of sound, showing off a spark in The New Year that is kept strategically under the radar. The bands return may come and go without much notice but given the chance this is an indie record that will grow on you with every chance you give it!

Key Tracks: "X Off Days", "Seven Days And Seven Nights", "The Idea Of You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Luna
Pond
Low

Official New Year Website
The New Year MySpace
The New Year Info [Allmusic]
Touch & Go Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Hotel Lights: Firecracker Peopl

Hotel Lights
Firecracker People
Bar/None Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Hotel Lights is songwriter Darren Jessee, otherwise known as the drummer (and co-songwriter) of Ben Folds Five. Firecracker People is his sophomore outing and it is an album that will instantly grow on you with repeat plays because of its subtle and heartfelt approach. Jessee's voice is soft and his style is not as explosive of any of the Ben Folds work but it is this soft delivery that carries each tracks memorable chorus and keeps your interest right down to the last chord!

Key Track: "Norina"

Band With Similar Fire: Ron Sexsmith

Official Hotel Lights Website
Hotel Lights MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Death Vessel: Nothing Is Precious Enough For Us

Death Vessel
Nothing Is Precious Enough For Us
Sub Pop Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Death Vessel always will get lumped into the Neo-folk category mainly because leader Joel Thibodeau's vocals are sung in the an impossibly high and clear falsetto that just simply amazes the listener. Nothing Is Precious Enough For Us highlights his talent for making unusual arrangements and getting the best performance out of numerous friends and players that contribute to the album. Overall it feels like an album that captures a superb jam session of some talented locals jamming on the back porch but the melodies carry the record to the next level and make you take another listen just to absorb the material.

Key Track: "Fences Around Field"

Band With Similar Fire: Devendra Banhart

Official Death Vessel Website
Death Vessel MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Chad VanGaalen: Soft Airplane

Chad VanGaalen
Soft Airplane
Sub Pop Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Most cohesive and accessible album to date!

Album Review:
Soft Airplane is Canadian Chad VanGaalen's third album and second for Sub Pop. He has always been one of the more interesting artists because he heads down to his basement and emerges with albums that are full of guitar, drum beats, loops, samples, unorthodox percussion, distortion, synthesizers, and the kitchen sink! VanGaalen has the ability to turn what seems like what would be elementary sounds and lo-fi recordings into a full band sound that exceeds expectations and you would never guess it is just one guy. What is different on Soft Airplane from his previous records is its complete accessibility, cohesiveness and confident vibe. This may be because the album was written and recorded more or less within the same time period, rather than collected from disparate moments and sessions spanning many, many years. The album is full of soaring and memorable choruses, quiet and sensible acoustic ballads and even some dancey groove pop songs. Chad VanGaalen has offered up a solid and concise effort that I guarantee if you are into addictive indie music he will win you over with all of the perfectly melded instruments making Soft Airplane stronger with every spin because each time around you catch something new and that keeps you coming back!

Key Tracks: "Bones Of Man", "Barefeet On The Wet Griptape", "City Of Electric Light"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Benji Hughes
Chris Knox
Bon Iver

Willow Tree (mp3)

Official Chad VanGaalen Website
Chad VanGaalen MySpace
Chad VanGaalen Info [Allmusic]
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Gutter Twins: Adorata [EP]

The Gutter Twins
Adorata [EP]
Sub Pop Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Adorata is the new EP from the Greg Duli and Mark Lanegan vehicle Gutter Twins released exclusively through iTunes. It was mostly recorded during the sessions for the first album Saturnalia and contains 6 covers plus two unreleased originals. Anyone that is familiar with Greg Duli knows that covers are a specialty of his and Adorata does not disappoint as the duo cover songs from Vetiver, José González, Primal Scream, Eleven, Isobel Campbell & Lanegan plus Scott Walker.

Key Track: "Down The Line"

Band With Similar Fire: The Afghan Whigs

The Gutter Twins: Saturnalia [Fire Note Review 3/4/08]

The Gutter Twins Website
The Gutter Twins MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Kristoffer Ragnstam: Wrong Side Of The Room

Kristoffer Ragnstam
Wrong Side Of The Room
Bluhammock Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Wrong Side Of The Room marks Swedish singer/songwriter Kristoffer Ragnstam's sophomore outing which expands on his debut in the arena of indie pop sensibilities. His sound is much more straight-forward than that of fellow countrymen Jens Lekman but still possess the same charm, swagger and energy. The one thing you instantly notice on Wrong Side Of The Room is Ragnstam's talent as a songwriter, which shines through on every track and forces the listener to take notice and make room for one more Swede in the player.

Key Track: "Swing That Tambourine"

Band With Similar Fire: Bowie & Beck

Swing That Tambourine (mp3)

Official Kristoffer Ragnstam Website
Kristoffer Ragnstam MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Johnny Foreigner: Waited Up Til It Was Light

Johnny Foreigner
Waited Up Til It Was Light
Nettwerk Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Johnny Foreigner hail from the UK and have been receiving some hype for their debut record based on a string of succesful singles. Waited Up Til It Was Light is full of high energy indie pop that has male/female dueling vocals which all tie together in a frenzy. In this case frenzy is good and all of those catchy singles can be found here making Johnny Foreigner an import worthy of checking out!

Key Track: "Eyes Wide Terrified"

Band With Similar Fire: Bis

Johnny Foreigner MySpace

-Reviewed byAidan Rox

Jessica Lea Mayfield: With Blasphemy So Heartfelt

Jessica Lea Mayfield
With Blasphemy So Heartfelt
Polymer Sounds [2008]








Fire Note Says: This one is a new young discovery and a keeper!

Album Review:
Jessica Lea Mayfield’s first full-length album titled With Blasphemy, So Heartfelt drops next week and let me tell you why you should check her out immediately. She was named “Vocalist of the Year” in March by The Cleveland Free Times, and has already opened for bands like Lucero, The Black Keys, and The Avett Brothers. She contributed background vocals on The Black Keys lastest album Attack & Release and has continued the Ohio alliance with Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys by spending the last two years recording in his home studio in Akron and to no surprise he produced the record. Most of the album is Mayfield on acoustic guitar tackling folk country tinged tunes backed by only her haunting drawn out vocals that have the ability to get in your head and stay for awhile. That is not to say she did not have some help because Auerbach plays a variety of instrumentation along with Mayfield’s brother on upright bass plus Dr. Dog’s Scott McMicken and Frank McElroy show up and provide vocal harmonies on the track “I’m Not Lonely Anymore.” It is hard to imagine that an eighteen year old singer/songwriter has the experience and chops to pull off a debut album full of songs about love and pain but Mayfield makes it seem like she is a seasoned veteran, which not only makes With Blasphemy So Heartfelt enthralling but also makes me can't wait for what she does next!

Key Tracks: "I Can't Lie To You, Love", "Kiss Me Again", "The One That I Love Best"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Neko Case
Mazzy Star
Heartless Bastards

Official Jessica Lea Mayfield Website
Jessica Lea Mayfield MySpace

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Computer Vs. Banjo: Computer Vs. Banjo

Computer Vs. Banjo
Computer Vs. Banjo
Diagram Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Computer vs. Banjo is a cool band name and guess what - it actually is pretty literal to describe this Nashville duo's sound. It is an odd pairing but I must say it totally works for the band because they use guitars, drum machines and banjos along with synths and mandolins that create a sort of digital-folk melting pot. The instruments alone might make their self-titled debut a mess but they all strategically support the indie pop vocals and end result which is completely additive.

Key Track: "Guitars Need A Sinner's Touch"

Band With Similar Fire: The Postal Service

Official Computer Vs. Banjo Website
Computer Vs. Banjo MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Sundayrunners: Tame Animals

Sundayrunners
Tame Animals
Machine-Inc. [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
This is the sophomore album from Chicago's power pop band Sundayrunners. This record follows their critically acclaimed 2005 self-titled debut and completely holds up to expectations. Tame Animals is a perfect 10 songs in just under 40 minutes and full of catchy and well penned harmonic tunes. They even through in a cover of Big Star's "The Ballad Of El Goodo" to close the album, which is not only well done but it tells you exactly who they are!

Key Track: "Heads Back In The Air"

Band With Similar Fire: Big Star

Official Sundayrunners Website
Sundayrunners MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Tres Bien: Tres Bien [EP]

Tres Bien
Tres Bien [EP]
Self-Released [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Sixties-influenced mod/rockers Tres Bien put it all on the table with their self-titled EP and shake the shingles with their explosive energy. You may actually recognize the name from last years "Next Great American Band" on FOX as the group placed sixth from a pool of over 10,000 submissions. This EP is a product of some of the downtime while on the show and after just taking it for one spin its rock out vibes let you know it was the perfect way to spend twenty minutes and why they made it so far in the competition!

Key Track: "How I Feel"

Band With Similar Fire: The Greenhornes

Official Tres Bien Website
Tres Bien MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Mondo Primo: 2FN Hot

Mondo Primo
2FN Hot
Doghouse/Heinous/Universal Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Make sure you put your 3-D glasses on!

Album Review:
Fun, catchy, fast and loud are quick and easy ways to describe the sophomore record from Mondo Primo or the band formally known as Feable Weiner that we last saw release a record back in 2003. Since that time the band has went through some changes besides a name change that include a new drummer and some label switching back n forth but their power punky pop approach to music remains as strong as ever and they really have not missed a beat. 2FN Hot was produced by Matt Mahaffey (Self, Beck, Helllogoodbye) and he was responsible for some of the more mature tweaks to the record like several Beach Boyish harmonies but for the most part he let the boys just play. With songs like “Dude, Your Girlfriend Sucks” and "Powerchords And Video Games" you get the point. With Mondo Primo the fun doesn't stop with the music because the physical disc, casing and booklet are all done in classic red-and-blue 3-D graphics, complete with a pair of 3-D glasses which was inspired from the world of comics. At the end of the day 2FN Hot is what it is - a fun power pop album that sounds great with the windows down - no more and no less - enjoy!

Key Tracks: "East Coast Girls", "Allegories, Catacombs, And Mystic Stories", "Mansvan Vs. Diablo"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Nerf Herder
Weezer
The All-American Rejects

Mondo Primo MySpace
Doghouse Records
Heinous Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Margot & The Nuclear So And So's: The Daytrotter Sessions [EP]

Margot & The Nuclear So And So's
The Daytrotter Sessions [EP]
Epic Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Margot & The Nuclear So And So's have followed the likes of indie powerhouses before them like Modest Mouse and Death Cab by signing to a major label for their next release. Released as a warm up to their official Epic debut, The Daytrotter Sessions EP contains five previously unreleased tracks from the band with the most notably being the fan and live favorite "Broadripple Is Burning". This EP is an excellent introduction to the band but is somewhat subdued because of the format but overall will keep you interested until their full length finally arrives next month.

Key Track: "Broadripple Is Burning"

Band With Similar Fire: Death Cab For Cutie

Margot & The Nuclear So And So's: The Dust Of Retreat [Fire Note Review 8/8/06]

Official Margot Website
Margot MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Johnny Flynn: A Larum

Johnny Flynn
A Larum
Lost Highway Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
A Larum is the Lost Highway debut album from British singer songwriter, Johnny Flynn. The album has an absolute traditional Americana sound with a solid backing band in the Sussex Wit. Together they draw on a century's worth of Folk, Blues and Country to produce a timeless album. Like any good record, A Larum gets better with every spin and regardless of what continent Flynn is from, he is a fresh face on the folkish troubadour scene that should be watched because I only see the young artist getting better!

Key Track: "Tickle Me Pink"

Band With Similar Fire: Fionn Regan

Johnny Flynn MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Unicycle Loves You: Unicycle Loves You

Unicycle Loves You
Unicycle Loves You
Highwheel Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Chicago five piece Unicycle Loves You self-titled debut is a mix of indie tunes that are dark, catchy and toe-tapping. The band is another entry into a genre that is hard to classify because none of the tracks found here are delivered straight-forward. It is the quick time changes and odd melodies that really make Unicycle Loves You stand out and highlights why their debut is worth your time.

Key Track: "Dollars + Cents"

Band With Similar Fire: Of Montreal

Highway Robbery (mp3)
Hawaii! (mp3)

Official Unicycle Loves You Website
Unicycle Loves You MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Okkervil River: The Stand Ins

Okkervil River
The Stand Ins
Jagjaguwar Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Could be another Top 25 album!

Album Review:
Trying to follow up last years critically hailed and most excellent The Stage Names (#1 on our Top 25) would be a feat for any band to attempt so an easy answer to that conundrum - release a full length sequel. This takes all the pressure off any expectations but let's get things clear - The Stand Ins is no throwaway. In fact, there is a good chance it might end up on our end year list too. From the opening instrumental track leading into the catchy "Lost Coastlines", complete with a sing a long la-la-la finish and the power pop rocker "Pop Lie", complete with a little hand clap action, Okkervil River pull out all the tricks and sound their most confident to date. What makes The Stand Ins so compelling is that it is from beginning to end musically tight with eleven tracks in forty minutes. With three of those eleven being instrumental, Okkervil have successfully packaged eight complex tracks that stretch genres and will completely satisfy even the most average indie fan - guess what? That is the ticket to success!

Key Tracks: "Singer Songwriter", "Calling And Not Calling My Ex", "Lost Coastlines"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Spoon
Bright Eyes
Shearwater

Okkervil River: The Stage Names [Fire Note Review 8/13/07]

Official Okkervil River Website
Okkervil River MySpace
Okkervil River Info [Allmusic]
Jagjaguwar Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Electric Touch: Electric Touch

Electric Touch
Electric Touch
Justice Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Lead singer Shane Lawler came all the way from Nottingham, England, to Austin, TX to get Electric Touch together and their sound is anything but Texan. The band turns up the amps on their self-titled debut and hits full throttle as they give a superb lesson in the long lost scene of glam-rock. The record was produced by Frenchie Smith (Built to Spill, The Dandy Warhols, Meat Puppets) with additional producing and mixing by Gavin Mackillop (Goo Goo Dolls, Sugarcult, The La’s), so it has all the right pieces that fit together for an entertaining ride.

Key Track: "Love In Our Hearts"

Band With Similar Fire: Suede

Official Electric Touch Website
Electric Touch MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Hercules And Love Affair: Hercules And Love Affair

Hercules And Love Affair
Hercules And Love Affair
DFA Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Albums like these don't necessarily release every day because their style is so unique. Hercules And Love Affair take classic disco and house music and totally re-morph the sounds into a modern soundtrack that pulls the listener in close and doesn't let go of its grip. Every track on the album feels like it could be chopped and remixed but ultimately offering the same great beat, which puts an exclamation mark on why we like it!

Key Track: "Raise Me Up"

Band With Similar Fire: Gnarls Barkley

Official Hercules And Love Affair Website
Hercules And Love Affair MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Lifeguard Nights: Punch Sky

Lifeguard Nights
Punch Sky
Headshop Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Lifeguard Nights is an 11 piece rock band from the NYC/NJ area, that features solid harmonies, tight percussion and horn sections. Fearless leader Vincent Brue cranks out the indie pop as the band really has that familiar vibe to them. I compare it to going to see your favorite local bar band that you simply just love! Punch Sky may not be the best record you have heard this year but the delivery and songs are catchy enough to put a smile on your face, sing-along and hit repeat.

Key Track: "Ruiner"

Band With Similar Fire: Firewater

Official Lifeguard Nights Website
Lifeguard Nights MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Mock Orange: Captain Love

Mock Orange
Captain Love
Wednesday Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: This album should get veteran band noticed!

Album Review:
The Mid-West is all about keeping their favorite bands secret and that is exactly what you will find here with Evansville, Indiana band Mock Orange. Mock Orange have been releasing albums since 1998 and never really have had much exposure but hopefully based on the strength of Captain Love that will change some. From the marching and whisking title track opener frontman Ryan Grisham leads the listener through the quick and smart rhythmic movements the band drives and puts you at ease as the harmonies fall right in line. Tracks like "Songs In D" and "World Of Machines" have a simple groove to them that instantly catches your ear and makes you want to hit repeat. If you are a fan of The Shins or Band Of Horses scene then Mock Orange will not disappoint because their sound is of the same textbook and their experience as a band brings a cohesiveness to the record that definitely highlights their veteran status.

Key Tracks: "World Of Machines", "Captain Love", "Majestic Raincoat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Shins
Band Of Horses
The Republic Tigers

Official Mock Orange Website
Mock Orange MySpace
Mock Orange Info [Allmusic]
Wednesday Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

The Black Angels: Directions To See A Ghost

The Black Angels
Directions To See A Ghost
Light In Attic Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Directions To See A Ghost is The Black Angels highly anticipated sophomore release and it sees a continuation of the psychedelic and epic tracks that were found on Passover [2006]. The Black Angels succeed in maintaining your attention by not overkilling you with the drone but by placing catchy hooks into their tracks, which grab you like on opener "You On The Run" and "You In Color". This album is a massive undertaking, as it goes the full 72 minute distance over 11 tracks with 22% of it on the sixteen minute closer "Snake In The Grass", so get out your headphones and prepare to be carried away!

Key Track: "You In Color"

Band With Similar Fire: Spaceman 3

Doves (mp3)

The Black Angels: Passover [Fire Note Review 5/16/06]

Official Black Angels Website
The Black Angels MySpace

Buy at Rhapsody

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Captain Of Industry: The Bronze

Captain Of Industry
The Bronze
All Hail Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
I am sure that Dayton, Ohio has many secrets but Captain Of Industry should not be one of them. The Bronze is the bands third album and this time out COI added some members to enhance their overall band sound and create a more sharp pop and dueling guitar affair that is surrounded by interesting wordplay and memorable melodies. The result equals 14 tracks that get better with every spin and offer up something new each time around.

Key Track: "Sabo"

Band With Similar Fire: Ima Robot

Captain Of Industry MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Dead Heart Bloom: Fall In [EP]

Dead Heart Bloom
Fall In [EP]
KEI Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Fall In is the first in a series of EPs Dead Heart Bloom will release this year. It may shock some listeners when you pop this thing in because after the superb folkish album Chelsea Diaries [2007], Fall In kicks up the guitars and ventures a bit into a more rock offering. Even though I believe I prefer the quieter side of the band, like on the mellow "Nothing Will Break Me Now", DHB take full advantage of the traditional EP format and experiment some, not to mention for free download at the bands website how much can I really complain because the output is still solid!

Key Track: "Nothing Will Break Me Now"

Band With Similar Fire: Built To Spill

Free EP Download (Band Approved)

Dead Heart Bloom: Chelsea Diaries [5/30/07]

Official Dead Heart Bloom Website
Dead Heart Bloom MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Calexico: Carried To Dust

Calexico
Carried To Dust
Quarterstick Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: A sweet refinement of style!

Album Review:
Believe it or not on Calexico's last outing Garden Ruin [2006] there was a lot of "love it" or "hate it" going on mostly because the band expanded their sound outside the Arizona borders and moved towards a more modern and mainstream friendly direction. For those fans on the "hate it" side I have excellent news for you - Carried To Dust is completely back to their roots and has enough representative sounds from the American West and Mexican culture to make you break out a glass of lemonade it's so hot! Now if you were like me and sort of into the pop dabbling of their last effort then there is plenty of reward to be found here for you too. The duo of Joey Burns and John Convertino have simply done what every great artists do - evolve! Carried To Dust takes bits and pieces of each previous Calexico album and morphed that sound into a bigger, cleaner, and smarter machine while retaining the traditional components, Western atmospheres and addictive tracks that made the band so endearing in the first place. This is a true combination for success plus the involement of some friends like Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) on "House Of Valparaiso", Douglas McCombs (Tortoise/Brokeback) on the closer "Contention City", and a trio of female artists Pieta Brown ("Slowness"), Amparo Sanchez ("Inpiracion") and Jairo Zavala ("Victor Jara's Hands") all enhance Carried To Dust and make it a complete group effort. It won't take long for any faithful fans of the group to embrace this album with open arms and I am sure critics won't have a hard time gushing either because Carried To Dust is just an album that once it is played it speaks volumes for itself!

Key Tracks: "Two Silver Trees", "Winter's Minor Holiday", "Red Blooms"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sun Kil Moon
Fleet Foxes
Giant Sand

Official Calexico Website
Calexico MySpace
Calexico Info [Allmusic]
Quarterstick Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Miranda Sound: Miranda Sound

Miranda Sound
Miranda Sound
Sunken Treasure Records [2008]







Fire Drill Review:
The fourth self-titled album from Columbus, Ohio 4 piece Miranda Sound, offers ten songs of indie-pop style through muscular riffs and rhythmic song structures. The band makes it appear so easy with their ability to create seamless shifts and killer melodies. Unfortunately the band just recently called it quits for now but this record will go down as a fine testament of their talent and still should be looked up!

Key Track: "Quilt Therapy"

Band With Similar Fire: The Jealous Sound

Quilt Therapy (mp3)
Leave Everyone Behind (mp3)
Kaleidoscope (mp3)

Official Miranda Sound Website
Miranda Sound MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Hot Little Hands: Dynamite In Black & White

Hot Little Hands
Dynamite In Black & White
Rubber Records [2008]







Fire Drill Review:
Hailing from Australia, Hot Little Hands recently launched their debut record Dynamite In Black & White and are hoping for a bigger audience outside the Commonwealth. With catchy soaring five part harmonies, jamming synths, an a confident lead vocal, the group might easily achieve their goal. The record has a mixed bag of sounds that include the psychedelic, garage, disco pop and to top it off a little bit of soul. This well rounded vibe makes for an entertaining debut and one that could do well if given the right break.

Key Track: "Scene Of The Crime"

Band With Similar Fire: The Coral

Scene Of The Crime (mp3)

Official Hot Little Hands Website
Hot Little Hands MySpace

Buy at iTunes

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Satin Gum: Satin Gum [EP]

Satin Gum
Satin Gum [EP]
Self-Released [2008]







Fire Drill Review:
You have to give Pittsburgh's Satin Gum props for not letting the grass grow under their feet with their new self-released EP because the group just formed this spring. The band shows where determination gets you by writing, recording and releasing the EP on their own in lightning speed and already available at all major digital stores. Satin Gum's influences include many staple alternative acts such as The Replacements, Sonic Youth, and Nirvana, all of which come through on Satin Gum with strong song structures, clear lead vocals and washed out guitars. It will be interesting to see what is next from the relatively new band!

Key Track: "No We Are Not Naming Our Kid After An IKEA Product"

Band With Similar Fire: Superdrag

Satin Gum MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Bears: Simple Machinery

Bears
Simple Machinery
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Note Says: More great harmonious indie alt-pop from Cleveland duo!

Album Review:
Our favorite band from Cleveland, the Bears, return with their sophomore full length Simple Machinery that is chalk full of the soft harmony ditties that we have come to expect from the group. The bands self titled debut caught everyone off guard in 2006 with its indie perfection so following it up would not be easy but the Bears tackle the task in stride. Everything on Simple Machinery is more refined and defined compared to their earlier work as the duo have perfected their sound while becoming better songwriters in the process. The band still retains the lo-fi vibe but the instrumentation such as the organ keyboarding and drums create a larger soundscape, which supports the foot tapping melodies. What started as Craig Ramsey and Charlie McArthur just making a record has now expanded into a solid catalog of bright indie pop that rides on the historic template of The Beach Boys while putting the Bears into the upper echelon of the genre for this decade and hopefully the next!

Key Tracks: "Wait And See", "Another Tiger Romance", "Our Time"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Shins
Beulah
Sea Wolf

Official Bears Website
Bears MySpace
Purchase Album @ CD Baby

Bears: Shortest Day Of The Year EP [Fire Note Review 12/21/07]
Bears: Bears [Fire Note Review 7/3/06]

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Peter Bradley Adams: Leavetaking

Peter Bradley Adams
Leavetaking
Sarathan Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Peter Bradley Adams brings you his sophomore record Leavetaking in all of its slick simplicity. It is an album that focuses on Adams soft delivery accompanied by some uncomplicated guitar and piano playing backed by solid female vocals. Adams voice carries each story and draws you into each of the nine tracks with each line making Leavetaking an album that any fan of the Americana scene can appreciate in just thirty powerful minutes.

Key Track: "Ohio"

Band With Similar Fire: Ryan Adams

Always (mp3)
Under My Skin (mp3)
I'll Forget You (mp3)

Official Peter Bradley Adams Website
Peter Bradley Adams MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Amanda Palmer: Who Killed Amanda Palmer

Amanda Palmer
Who Killed Amanda Palmer
Roadrunner Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
You may not know Amanda but she is half of the Brechtian punk cabaret duo The Dresden Dolls. Her solo debut showcases the many sides of Palmer and goes down some roads she would not follow with the Dolls. The record was produced by Ben Folds, and to no surprise features him with accompaniment but most importantly he helps guide and mix her style with a pop sensibility that reveals her maturity as a songwriter, performer and most importantly as a solo artist.

Key Track: "Oasis"

Band With Similar Fire: Tori Amos

Amanda Palmer MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

White Lies: Unfinished Business [Single]

White Lies
Unfinished Business [Single]
Geffen Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Covering a single is a new one for us but after spinning the new two track disc from the UKs White Lies we thought that spreading the word might be in order. Both songs are right out of the Interpol playbook right down to lead vocalist Harry McVeigh's vocals and hit with a higher intensity than expected. The trio's sound is tuneful, catchy and worthy of building some hype before their full length debut hits and new single "Death" launches later this month.

Key Track: "Unfinished Business" (video)

Band With Similar Fire: Interpol

Official White Lies Website
White Lies MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Dutchess And The Duke: She's The Dutchess, He's The Duke

The Dutchess And The Duke
She's The Dutchess, He's The Duke
Hardly Art Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: Play it like it's 1965!

Album Review:
Kimberly Morrison and Jesse Lortz make up the Seattle duo known as The Dutchess And The Duke. Their album is really simple and in this case simple is good. The group basically set out to make a record that sounds dated with everything from the crackling vibe of vinyl to the spotty muffed vocals that were recorded over 8-track. The pair play off each other perfectly, creating an electricity that hits you with harmonies and melodies that remain in your head long after the thirty minute adventure ends. Regardless of the retro feel, what oozes out of She's The Dutchess, He's The Duke is a modern swagger that makes the record fit into your current playlist and does not rely on song order to be successful. Each track stands as strong on its own as it does within the sequence achieving something that career bands constantly strive for. She's The Dutchess, He's The Duke is an album that just gets better and more addictive with every spin putting The Dutchess And The Duke as not only a band to watch in 2008 but one to keep watching!

Key Tracks: "Reservoir Park", "Mary", "The Prisoner"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Verbena
X
Dylan fronting The Rolling Stones

Reservoir Park (mp3)

The Dutchess And The Duke MySpace
Hardly Art Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Moondoggies: Don't Be A Stranger

The Moondoggies
Don't Be A Stranger
Hardly Art Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Who said that good ol Americana rock couldn't come from the Northwest? Don't tell Seattle's Moondoggies because their debut Don't Be A Stranger is chock full of musically tight gospel, blues, rock and country tracks that showcase this young bands talents. The quartet bring it all together with killer harmonies that ooze their passion for playing. This passion quickly translates into addictive songs that I can only imagine get better at their live performances and makes Don't Be A Stranger a must for any straight laced American music fan out there!

Key Track: "Changing"

Band With Similar Fire: Wilco

The Moondoggies MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Greg Laswell: Three Nights From Alto Nido

Greg Laswell
Three Nights From Alto Nido
Vanguard Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
We have been following Greg Laswell since his debut back in 2006 and it has been nice to see his musical progression. Laswell's sophomore effort Three Nights From Alto Nido leaves behind all of his personal turmoil found on Through Toledo [2006] and goes big. The production and music is bigger on Three Nights From Alto Nido which gives Laswell all of the tools to maximize his vocals and songwriting skills ultimately making this his most engaging effort to date.

Key Track: "The One I Love"

Band With Similar Fire: Coldplay

Greg Laswell: How The Day Sounds EP [Fire Note Review 3/25/08]
Greg Laswell: Through Toledo [Fire Note Review 8/17/06]

Greg Laswell MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Noah And The Whale: Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down

Noah And The Whale
Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down
Cherrytree Records [2008]







Fire Drill Review:
If you do it right there can be nothing more drawing than a good indie folk album. Noah And The Whale are up to the task and this UK group dazzles listeners with their stories and simplistic catchy harmonies. Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down features lead vocalist Charlie Fink but is also balanced with the lovely vocals of now ex-member Laura Marling who now is getting a lot of attention on her own debut record. It is too bad she did leave the band because this pairing pushes Noah And The Whale to the upper echelon of the genre - hopefully her replacement can be just as appealing!

Key Track: "5 Years Time"

Band With Similar Fire: Neutral Milk Hotel

Official Noah And The Whale Website
Noah And The Whale MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The Verve: Forth

The Verve
Forth
MRI Associated/Parlophone Records [2008]







Fire Note Says: Not bad for eleven years off!

Album Review:
I must admit that I was a little scared to put the reunited Verve's new album Forth in the player just because I was sure that it would be a letdown. I mean the odds were against them for releasing a new album nine years after the band called it quits and it complicates things that Urban Hymns [1997] was their most commercially successful record and contained the huge hit "Bitter Sweet Symphony". The good news is that Forth picks up right where Hymns left off and is totally a Verve album - the bad news is that it does not surpass it's predecessor. With that said it is not awful by any chart and fans of the band will eat up each epic and musically sprawling track. Out of the ten tracks all but one are longer than five minutes and most pass the six minute mark. This is not necessarily a bad thing especially if you are The Verve because the eight minute "Noise Epic" is one of the most challenging and interesting tracks on the record. Other songs like single "Love Is Noise" and the short four minute song on the disc "Valium Skies" contain the magic of Richard Ashcroft's inviting vocals and the bands slick orchestral sway that only The Verve can produce. This alone should be enough to bring the legion of fans new and old back to The Verve for another round.

Key Tracks: "Love Is Noise", "Valium Skies", "Noise Epic"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Charlatans
Embrace
The Beta Band

Official Verve Website
The Verve MySpace
The Verve Info [Allmusic]
Parlophone Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Gentleman Auction House: Alphabet Graveyard

Gentleman Auction House
Alphabet Graveyard
Emergency Umbrella Records [2008]







Fire Drill Review:
Alphabet Graveyard by the Gentleman Auction House is an indie pop record that has great melodies and dabbles into other genres to keep your interest. Everything from folkish ballads to a rhythmic Motown vibe and some reggae tinged let GAH keep you guessing. Overall a fun release that has the same sound as a Bright Eyes or Arcade Fire but with a more upbeat attitude and carefree approach, which lets Alphabet Graveyard just provide what it is - indie bliss!

Key Track: "Call It Casual"

Band With Similar Fire: Bright Eyes

The Book Of Matches (mp3)
A Good Son (mp3)

Official Gentleman Auction House Website
Gentleman Auction House MySpace


Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Caesars: Strawberry Weed

Caesars
Strawberry Weed
Astralwerks Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
"Jerk It Out" made the Caesars one of the first bands to benefit from having their song highlighted in a iPod commercial and now they are back with another batch of 60's inspired songs that make up one of their best albums to date. Strawberry Weed's tracks all have a lo-fi rawness to them but don't thinks it stops the bands knack for power pop because it still shines through infectiously strong. There is no song that will jump off like "Jerk It Out" did but as a complete album Strawberry Weed succeeds!

Key Track: "Strawberry Weed"

Band With Similar Fire: The Swedish Guided By Voices

Caesars MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Takka Takka: Migration

Takka Takka
Migration
Ernest Jenning [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Migration is Takka Takka's sophomore effort and was produced by Clap Your Hands Say Yeah drummer Sean Greenhalgh, and also features their guitarist Lee Sargent, giving the band an extra push of indie credit. The band could have expanded their poppy sound found on their debut but went the other direction by turning down the beats and upping the more atmospheric backdrops. The result is a more mature album that still contains indie underlines which lets Migration offer something new every spin.

Key Track: "Silence"

Band With Similar Fire: Yo La Tengo

Takka Takka: We Feel Safer At Night [Fire Note Review 12/15/06]

Official Takka Takka Website
Takka Takka MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Juliana Hatfield: How To Walk Away

Juliana Hatfield
How To Walk Away
Ye Olde Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: How To Walk Away plays just how it should!

Album Review:
Juliana Hatfield is a giant female staple in what we now call alternative music today. With her credits including the Blake Babies and The Lemonheads plus a stellar solo career that hit its high peaks in the nineties, How To Walk Away marks her tenth album and for this moment in her career it is the perfect release. I think so many times we want artists to be something that they aren't or something they used to be. On How To Walk Away, Hatfield is who she is today - a mature artist that puts her full passion, experiences and one hundred percent into a record. It also doesn't hurt that at this point in her career she has some really musically talented friends that help out only making the record stronger. How To Walk Away was produced by Andy Chase of Ivy and features guests Richard Butler (Psychedelic Furs) and Matthew Caws (Nada Surf) on vocals, Jody Porter (Fountains Of Wayne) on guitar, and Tracy Bonham on violin to just name drop a little bit. The biggest difference longtime fans will notice is that Hatfield's girlish vocals have somewhat diminished with age but that is the artist she used to be and her best tool only enhances the message she delivers here. This somewhat more mild tone adds a real punch to her story of love, lust, loss and surviving the things we call relationships making How To Walk Away one of her most intriguing records to date.

Key Tracks: "Such A Beautiful Girl", "This Lonely Love", "So Alone"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Tanya Donnelly
Kristen Hersh
Aimee Mann

Shining On (mp3)
This Lonely Love (w/ Richard Butler) (mp3)

Official Juliana Hatfield Website
Juliana Hatfield MySpace
Juliana Hatfield Info [Allmusic]
Ye Olde Records

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

The Features: Some Kind Of Salvation

The Features
Some Kind Of Salvation
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
The Features have been through some major label woes and laying a little low since their last release Exhibit A back in 2004. Some Kind Of Salvation clearly shows they were working hard behind the scenes with its showcase of musical growth in all areas and perfecting their sixties inspired rock which comes alive in all thirteen tracks. Songs like “Wooden Heart” and “GMF” have a swagger to them that is hard for many bands to achieve – The Features make it seem easy!

Key Track: "Wooden Heart"

Band With Similar Fire: Kings Of Leon

Official Features Website
The Features MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Stereolab: Chemical Chords

Stereolab
Chemical Chords
4AD Records [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
Stereolab have been releasing albums since about 1992 so it is always an enjoyment to pop in a new record from the masters of sixties art pop. Chemical Chords finds the band in a better place emotionally since their last album of all new material was Margerine Eclipse [2004], which was the first since the passing of longtime member Mary Hansen. Time always helps heal and on Chemical Chords the band returns to a more lighthearted sound, which is the reason this album is so infectious, warm and comfortable!

Key Track: "The Ecstatic Static"

Band With Similar Fire: The Notwist

Official Stereolab
Stereolab MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Blackmarket: Blackmarket [EP]

Blackmarket
Blackmarket [EP]
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drill Review:
If you are ready for a very simple straight-forward EP of alternative rock then Blackmarket is the record for you. The band teamed up with Sean Slade (Radiohead, Dinosaur Jr., Hole) and Matthew Ellard (Morphine, Weezer, Elliott Smith), for a month-long recording process to finalize tracks that have been in the works for years. You always hear about bands being big in Japan but Blackmarket really are selling out shows in Tokyo and played the FujiRock Festival. This is your opportunity to catch what all the fuss is about.

Key Track: "Shelia"

Band With Similar Fire: The Get Up Kids

Blackmarket MySpace

Shelia (mp3)
Drag Addict (mp3)

-Reviewed by Reece Michael