Heartless Bastards: The Mountain

Heartless Bastards
The Mountain
Fat Possum Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: This is one climb you will not want to pass up!

Album Review:
From the opening strums of the albums lead off and title track "The Mountain" you just know that for the next 50 minutes the Heartless Bastards are going to rock you out with their style of dirty blues and Erika Wennerstrom's howling vocals. It is this cool and steady grind of a song which makes the group unique and it simply oozes their confidence here on album number three. The Heartless Bastards have a simple background that started in Dayton, Ohio with Wennerstrom watching some of the towns best in GBV, Brainiac and The Breeders before setting out on her own and migrating down to call Cincinnati home for the first two records. For a change in scenery she moved to Austin in 2007 and brought some Gem City buds with her in Jesse Ebaugh on bass and Dave Colvin hitting the skins. These guys actually played on the original demo that landed the Heartless Bastards on Fat Possum so they really are veterans of the band. The Mountain is the first record not to be self-produced by Wennerstrom and the duty was passed to Austin man Mike McCarthy (Spoon, Trail Of Dead) which seemed to be the perfect fit as he brought in a slew of musical talent to allow Erika to focus on songs. McCarthy was also responsible for expanding the simple instrumentation found on the groups previous two albums by incorporating strings, mandolin, banjo and a little pedal steel. This expansion of sound suits Wennerstrom's anthem ready song structures and makes every track feel bigger and rock harder. The Mountain is easily the Heartless Bastards most sonic album to date but something that has not changed is Erika's powerful throaty vocals, which drive each song through your head regardless if it is on the sweet country ballad "So Quiet" or in the attitude heavy "Out To Sea" this is the type of record you expect from them and one that should be big enough for more people to take notice when The Mountain drops to retail next week!

Key Tracks: "The Mountain", "Out To Sea", "Eary In The Morning"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Duke Spirit
The Black Keys
Day For Night

Heartless Bastards: All This Time [Fire Note Review 8/7/06]

Official Heartless Bastards Website
Heartless Bastards MySpace
Heartless Bastards Info [Allmusic]
Fat Possum Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

BM Linx: Black Entertainment

BM Linx
Black Entertainment
Craze Factory [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
BM Linx are a powerful electronic rock n roll band from New York, New York and their sophomore record Black Entertainment is a real mix of Muse meets The Killers with Orgy joining the party. Everything found here is amped up and sound great with headphones. There are the pulsating bass lines, heavy beats, the in front vocals, precision drums make Black Entertainment a top notch effort but the inclusion of the instrumental "White Limousine" and the smooth appropriately acoustic closer "UO Acoustic" help set the album apart from the crowd. It is also worthy to note that the record was mixed by Alan Moulder (NIN, Smashing Pumpkins, Depeche Mode), which seems like the perfect selection and resulted in Black Entertainment's slick sounding tracks!

Key Track: "Kids On Fire"

Band With Similar Fire: Muse

Official BM Linx Website
BM Linx MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Mavis Staples: Live - Hope At The Hideout

Mavis Staples
Live: Hope At The Hideout
ANTI- Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Mavis Staples marched, sang and protested alongside Dr. Martin Luther King during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960 so it is refreshing to hear her still bring the noise at age 69. Staples states that she was at Chicago's Hideout to "bring joy, happiness, inspiration and some positive vibrations" which are all tasks she completes on this live record. Regardless of your normal listening genre, Staples is an artist that everyone should take a second to check out because she is the picture of what passion, heart, spirit and dedication looks like and it is all captured here on her hour long set!

Key Track: "Down In Mississippi"

Band With Similar Fire: Solomon Burke

Official Mavis Staples Website
Mavis Staples MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Maybe It's Reno: Maybe It's Reno

Maybe It's Reno
Maybe It's Reno
Teenbeat Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Maybe It's Reno is the debut album from Bridget Cross of Unrest, Velocity Girl and Air Miami fame. For the self-titled record she brought in her old Unrest bandmates Mark Robinson and Phil Krauth to create a talented group which leaves its stamp on a musically tight sounding record. Cross has always had an endearing voice and has made every project she is in special - Maybe It's Reno is no different except for that it features her songwriting, direction and spirit which for fans gives it a little extra gleam because it really is her solo record and this is who Cross is!

Key Track: "Sugarloaf Mountain"

Band With Similar Fire: Shannon McArdle

Gravestones And Christmas Trees (mp3)

Official Maybe It's Reno Website
Maybe It's Reno MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Bird And The Bee: Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future

The Bird And The Bee
Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future
Blue Note Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: Retro sound may not be for everyone but The Bird And The Bee consistently do the genre proud.

Album Review:
There used to be a few more bands on the scene that played the sort of spacey jazzy pop presented here by Inara George and Greg Kurstin (a.k.a The Bird And The Bee) but currently they are one of the poster children for their genre. Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future is the groups sophomore long player and it takes their artistic vision and injects a bit more overall peppiness on the tracks which include some upbeat moments in songs like "Love Letter To Japan" and "My Love". This is a feature that fits well with the lovely soft delivery style of George and combined with the swirling instruments of Kurstin adds intriguing layers to The Bird And The Bee's overall sound. In fact the retro swagger the duo offer here has never sounded better on the track "Polite Dance Song" , which slow builds with a foot tapping beat that is driven by George's more attitude vocals and la la la's that bop the song along leaving the listener wanting more. As a complete album some of the songs run a bit too similar in style but overall George can still sell it, which is why if you were a fan of the groups debut then Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future will appeal. The only problem will be grabbing new fans which could happen but it really depends if the masses will get on board - if so there is no better place to be!

Key Tracks: "Love Letter To Japan", "Polite Dance Song", "My Love"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Combustible Edison
Komeda
Zero 7

Love Letter To Japan (video)

Official Bird And The Bee Website
The Bird And The Bee MySpace
The Bird And The Bee Info [Allmusic]
Blue Note Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Or, The Whale: Light Poles And Pines

Or, The Whale
Light Poles And Pines
Seany Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Sometimes more is better and San Francisco's Or, The Whale utilizes every piece of energy supplied from the seven members in their band. This allows the band the freedom to create many different sounds on their debut Light Poles And Pines, be it on country rockers, folk styled ballads or just straight forward indie rock. Their male/female vocals give them even more artistic room for exploration along with memorable harmonies that combined with solid songwriting the collective create a smart and sincere Americana record that will give you a positive reaction with each indie country soaked spin.

Key Track: "Call And Response"

Band With Similar Fire: Drive-By Truckers

Call And Response (mp3)
Rope Don't Break (mp3)

Official Or, The Whale Website
Or, The Whale MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Pit Er Pat: High Times

Pit Er Pat
High Times
Thrill Jockey Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
On Pit Er Pat's third album High Times I can tell you that they have pulled out all the stops to use instruments that you didn't know even existed like the electric kalimba, a bobo balaphone, the vibraslap and let's not forget the Burmese temple gongs. All kidding aside because Pit Er Pat really do incorporate those plus an even more expansive variety of instruments to create their 70's style Eastern lounge vibe complete with the sultry vocals of Fay Davis-Jeffers. With the spooky sounding space sounds in "Cooper Pennies" and the infectious jive noise on "The Cairo Shuffle", Pit Er Pat bring another dose of intrigue with High Times that will retain their fanbase while capturing any indie spirited listener who just happens to stumble into their realm.

Key Track: "Omen"

Band With Similar Fire: High Places

Official Pit Er Pat Website
Pit Er Pat MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Rahim: Laughter

Rahim
Laughter
Pretty Activity Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
It sort of surprises me that Rahim are not bigger on the indie scene because their style of jangular indie pop is not only catchy it is pretty good. Now on their sophomore record, Laughter finds the group evolving from the harder edged and J. Robbins influenced debut into more of a subtle indie group that represents more like a Death Cab. This of course is not a bad transition because Rahim still bring smart lyrics, humable choruses and bundle their eleven tracks into a nice thirty minute package. Laughter is one of those albums that after repeated listens you still find something new and it sinks in that Rahim are a band you love to hear but you just don't tell anybody - shame on you!

Key Track: "Cities Change"

Band With Similar Fire: Q And Not U

Rahim: Ideal Lives [Fire Note Review 6/9/06]

Official Rahim Website
Rahim Myspace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Bruce Springsteen: Working On A Dream

Bruce Springsteen
Working On A Dream
Columbia Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: This is the bright side of Bruce!

Album Review:
Working On A Dream feels like an album that finds Bruce completely satisfied where he is and what is going on in the world around him. He really couldn't have much more going for him lately when you consider he won a Golden Globe for best song "The Wrestler", has a deal with Wal-Mart, has a Grammy nomination, played the Lincoln Memorial for a President he actually likes and this Sunday is playing one of the biggest venues for an artist - The Superbowl. Heck - I am sure he isn't even that pissed about getting the Oscar snub (even though he should be). This lighter side of Springsteen shines through on many of the albums 13 tracks like first single "My Lucky Day", the great story in eight minute opener "Outlaw Pete" and even a quirky song about supermarket love in "Queen Of The Supermarket". Interesting enough compared to the last several outings working with the E Street Band, Working On A Dream relies on them in more of a background role then jamming side by side with Springsteen. This does change the albums atmosphere but not the substance. Many albums are front loaded with some of the strongest tracks back to back but on Working On A Dream it really is about the last three. There is the solid power pop of "Surprise Surprise", followed by the moving tribute to his late keyboardist Danny Federici on "The Last Carnival" and then the closing bonus award winning track "The Wrestler" that speaks for itself. These songs alone will make you come back for more because Working On A Dream is a feel good album that just raises your euphoric level after each memorable spin!

Key Tracks: "Surprise Surprise", "My Lucky Day", "The Wrestler"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Pete Yorn
Alejandro Escovedo
Tom Petty

Official Bruce Springsteen Website
Bruce Springsteen MySpace
Bruce Springsteen Info [Allmusic]
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears: Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears [EP]

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears [EP]
Lost Highway Records [2009]






Fire Drills Review:
You might not expect this combo of soul, blues and attitude to smoke up out of Austin, Texas but Black Joe Lewis and his Honeybears bring it right at you with their 12 minute 4 song preview EP. With songs like "Bitch, I Love You" and "Master Sold My Baby" it is definitely new school but Lewis reincarnates the energy and spirit of James Brown, which is instantly likable. This preview will certainly build some anticipation for their Lost Highway full length Tell 'Em What Your Name Is! due March 17th.

Key Track:"Bitch, I Love You"

Band With Similar Fire: RL Burnside

Official Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears Website
Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

J. Tillman: Vacilando Territory Blues

J. Tillman
Vacilando Territory Blues
Western Vinyl Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Tillman joined up with Fleet Foxes after the Sun Giant EP, which we know turned out pretty good for him but he was originally a solo artist and Vacilando Territory Blues is his fifth record. Besides not having the constant lush harmonic choruses of the Fleets, his record follows the same kind of format and Tillman's voice shines with his acoustic guitar accompaniment plus he rounds things out with Foxes Christian Wargo and Casey Wescot helping out. If the Fleet Foxes are the Yin then Tillman's solo record is the Yang because even if they are not supposed to, they really do compliment each other and once again puts an exclamation mark next to the future output of this groups members.

Key Track: "Steel On Steel"

Band With Similar Fire: Fleet Foxes

James Blues (mp3)
Steel On Steel (mp3)

Official J. Tillman Website
J. Tillman MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

MarvelAnn: Bad Advice

MarvelAnn
Bad Advice
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Simon Honisett and Jonathan Jubera make up the Portland duo MarvelAnn, which have been around for about ten years. They don't have much output since Bad Advice is the groups sophomore outing but their soft style of indie pop grows with you on every repeat listen. The pair recruited a gob of other artists for a contribution to Bad Advice, which is why it is filled with lush and large arrangements that include pedal steel, accordion, vibes and strings. The extra instrumentation provides a sculpted soundscape that helps MarvelAnn achieve the surreal dream pop that makes for a pleasant listen and will turn you into a fan!

Key Track: "How Long Can You Stay Angry"

Band With Similar Fire: Mercury Rev

MarvelAnn MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Vulture Whale: Vulture Whale

Vulture Whale
Vulture Whale
Skybucket Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Unique name - straight ahead rock!

Album Review:
Vulture Whale are a tight little rock outfit from Birmingham, Alabama that will be releasing their sophomore self-titled record next week on Skybucket Records. You will notice right from the opening rocker "Teedy" that Vulture Whale sound like seasoned veterans. This cohesion spawns from all the members playing together in one form or another for several years plus the industry experience of singer/songwriter Wes McDonald (The Ohms) and guitarist Lester Nuby (Verbena) shines through. The quartet make no mistakes that this is a no frills straight forward rock record that has catchy melodies, in your face guitar and pounding drums that all combine for a good time and an incentive to come back for more. The record was mixed by Mark Rains (The Shys, Waylon Jennings) and it keeps the pedal pushed down hard as the lyrics just roll off McDonald's tongue as he sways and swaggers in "Sugar" plus conducts his business calmly over a triggering guitar lick in the semi ballad "What Do", which showcases that the band is more than one dimensional. If you are looking for a new group that may be slightly off the radar but bring that quality live bar band sound to record then Vulture Whale will fit nicely into your collection!

Key Tracks: "Sugar", "Tote It To Cleveland, AL", "Head Turner"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Replacements
The Hold Steady
The Revisionists

Tote It To Cleveland, AL (mp3)

Official Vulture Whale Website
Vulture Whale MySpace
Vulture Whale Info [Allmusic]
Skybucket Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Neko Case: People Got A Lot Of Nerve [Single]

Neko Case
People Got A Lot Of Nerve [Single]
ANTI- Records [2009]







Fire Drills Review:
“People Got A Lotta Nerve,” is the first single from Neko Case’s forthcoming album Middle Cyclone which is do out on ANTI- Records March 3. The song is a short and sweet 2:31 and soars with Neko's voice that is a bit more poppy like her work with The New Pornographers. The other cool thing about the single is that that for every Blog that reposts the song and/or iLike user who adds it to their profile, Neko Case and ANTI- will make a cash donation to Best Friends Animal Society.

People Got A Lotta Nerve (mp3)

Neko Case: Live From Austin TX [Fire Note Review 1/30/07]

Official Neko Case Website
Neko Case MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Said The Whale: Howe Sounds/Taking Abalonia

Said The Whale
Howe Sounds/Taking Abalonia
Upper Management [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
This Vancouver five-piece play a very dramatic indie pop that is instantly appealing to the ear. The group has been gaining popularity through their created videos on YouTube and this album re-releases the bands 2007 debut Taking Abalonia and adds seven new tracks to create the 15 you get here. Said The Whale have a very rhythmic clear vocal and playing style that mixes in some organ and harmonies that keep Howe Sounds/Taking Abalonia interesting and make Said The Whale an import from up North worth checking out!

Key Track: "This City's A Mess"

Band With Similar Fire: The Decemberists

Said The Whale MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Reel Big Fish: Fame, Fortune And Fornication

Reel Big Fish
Fame, Fortune And Fornication
Rock Ridge Music [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Reel Big Fish were one of those bands that had the right song ("Sell Out") at the the right time (Ska Launch) but if you knew anything about them you would know that they were just as much about the fun as they were about the music. Fame, Fortune And Fornication finds the band 13 years after their breakout album and long after ska is back underground, so it is no surprise that this is an album of interesting covers from the likes of Poison, Slade, John Mellencamp, Eagles, Tom Petty, and more. It is a fun listen but at the end of the day is it necessary - probably not but it still is enjoyable and fans will definitely check it out - the rest will just pass it over.

Key Track: "Authority Song"

Band With Similar Fire: Less Than Jake

Official Reel Big Fish Website
Reel Big Fish MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Loney Dear: Dear John

Loney Dear
Dear John
Polyvinyl Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: They dropped the comma but still brought the sweet sounding indie pop!

Album Review:
Over the last several years, Loney Dear has proved to be one of the better imports from Sweden and their fifth album Dear John meets these expectations. The main force behind the name is still multi-instrumentalist and ex-pro cyclist Emil Svanängen and he claims Dear John is the final piece of his five album puzzle. He by no means says this is the end of Loney Dear but this album represents the final hurrah of the span that started in 2003. We won't know what that exactly means for the future but we can tell you that Dear John is another batch of 10 simple songs that look forward but also seep despair. It is this balance and the endearing qualities that Emil emotes throughout the record, which is only enhanced by the fact that it was recorded both alone in his tiny Stockholm studio apartment and in the comfort of his parents’ house. The album easily splits into those two settings like the warmth of the first single "Airport Surroundings" which is peppy, beat happy and complete with background handclaps while "I Got Lost" feels like you are out by yourself on the cliff especially with the added help of Andrew Bird's haunting violin. Loney Dear is a band that continues to mold, morph and massage their sound and Emil is going for the pinnacle album of the groups existence with Dear John. Ultimately, it may not be his swan song but based on the repeatability and likability of Dear John, perfection for Loney Dear may not be too far away!

Key Tracks: "I Was Only Going Out", "Dear John", "Airport Surroundings"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Brad
The Postal Service
Pelle Carlberg

Loney, Dear: Loney, Noir [Fire Note Review 3/1/07]

Official Loney Dear Website
Loney Dear MySpace
Loney Dear Info [Allmusic]
Polyvinyl Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

The Wrens: Pulled Fences (Live) [Single]

The Wrens
Pulled Fences (Live) [Single]
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
It is official - this is new Wrens material and we are all giddy with excitement. "Pulled Fences" comes to us via The Wrens website and the song was recorded last year live on WorldSpace Sessions at Abbey Road. It is a five minute pop nugget that slow builds itself, peaks in the middle and then just gracefully fades away as smoothly as it came in. Basically, another solid track in their catalog. In other Wrens news this year marks the bands 20th anniversary, they have signed to Absolutely Kosher Records and are looking to release a new record in the Spring - lets say a little indie prayer!

Official Wrens Website
The Wrens MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

A.R. Rahman: Slumdog Millionaire [OST]

A.R. Rahman
Slumdog Millionaire [OST]
Interscope Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I can't say that I am a person that ever really cares to relive a movie through its soundtrack but on occasion a film comes along that the music integrates so marvelously that listening again is a must. The charming Slumdog Millionaire is just one of those movies as composer A.R. Rahman and director Danny Boyle make you feel emotion through their perfectly sequenced pieces. The soundtrack already has won a Golden Globe for Best Original Score and has been nominated for three Academy Award nominations. If you have not seen the film the soundtrack is full of fast paced heavy beats that represent the culture while giving them an electric jolt of modernization plus the ever powerful M.I.A., making listening a fun experience every time.

Key Track: "O... Saya" (M.I.A./A.R. Rahman)

Official A.R. Rahman Website
Official Slumdog Millionaire Website

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

LeATHERMOUTH: X0

LeATHERMOUTH
X0
Epitaph Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
You may be unfamiliar with the band but probably not the guitarist because LeATHERMOUTH is the hardcore-punk side project from Frank Iero of My Chemical Romance. Now before MCR fans run out to make a purchase I got to warn you...X0 is punishing, bashing, pounding, harsh and crack your head brutal. If I still have your attention then LeATHERMOUTH is for you and compared to others in the genre the band kills it. 10 songs in 20 minutes leaves no room extras and with songs like "I Am Going To Kill The President Of The United States Of America" and "Sunsets Are For Muggings" you realize quickly that LeATHERMOUTH are not playing. Iero says that X0 was his way to deal with depression and anxiety - after taking it for a spin it will heal all that ails you too!

Key Track: "Catch Me If You Can"

Band With Similar Fire: Some Girls

Official LeATHERMOUTH Website
LeATHERMOUTH MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Matt & Kim: Grand

Matt & Kim
Grand
FADER Label [2009]








Fire Note Says: Matt & Kim grow their sound with superb results!

Album Review:
It has been over two years since we heard from the duo of Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino as they have had a constant touring schedule due to an ever growing fan base. Grand has been in the works in between the touring for about nine months so it is nice to finally get a listen to what the group has been up to. The opening track "Daylight" gives some good insight that they have matured a bit from revved up lo-fi jumpy punk synth rockers into solid musicians with a more complete vision. The songs have slowed down a bit, some piano has been laced throughout, the lyrics can now be absorbed and the songs are that more hummable. Don't be afraid that this "grown up" tag takes one ounce of energy away because Matt & Kim still crank out eleven tracks in a neat contained thirty minute package. Grand also is just as fun as their self-titled debut and surpasses it in quality, which fits their song structures where before songs seemed rushed now they seem developed. This all translates into a entertaining indie pop record that bounces and shakes while letting the listener foot tap all the way to the end with a much deeper sound - Grand is a win-win for everybody!

Key Tracks: "Daylight", "Good Ol' Fashion Nightmare", "Don't Slow Down"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Seedy Seeds
The Little Ones
Mates Of State

Matt & Kim: Matt & Kim [Fire Note Review 11/21/06]

Official Matt & Kim Website
Matt & Kim MySpace
Matt & Kim Info [Allmusic]
FADAR Label

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

My Morning Jacket: Live At The Palms [EP]

My Morning Jacket
Live At The Palms [EP]
iTunes [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
This iTunes exclusive digital EP may have a live title but you would never know by listening because the crowd noise has been removed. This may be a quick letdown for My Morning Jacket's huge touring following but for many this might pull you in to to check it out. The EP contains six tracks with "Dear Wife" being the only new song on the list. A key point to make about this EP is that the songs have been re-recorded and each one has been updated with some new tweaks. This simply shows that once again My Morning Jacket are the band to see live because they can take any of their catalog and make it feel fresh!

Key Track: "Dear Wife"

Band With Similar Fire: Dead Confederate

My Morning Jacket: Evil Urges [Fire Note Review 6/11/08]

Official My Morning Jacket Website
My Morning Jacket MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The 88: Not Only... But Also

The 88
Not Only... But Also
Island Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
The 88 are power pop band from sunny California that has a total British invasion sound to them. Not Only...But Also possesses a confidence that comes through song after song and The 88 have that big sprawling sound which is made for radio. The album was produced by Babyface and Matt Wallace (Faith No More) which is an interesting combo and it must have led to the balance of pop and rock that can found here. The 88 is not putting earth shattering life changing music but Not Only...But Also is a good album from beginning to end with just the right mix of rockers and ballads to keep you entertained.

Key Track: "Go Go Go"

Band With Similar Fire: Stereophonics

Official 88 Website
The 88 MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Octomutt: Please Betty [EP

Octomutt
Please Betty [EP]
Drizzoletto Music [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
You may be surprised to learn that Octomutt call San Francisco home after hearing their more traditional country sound on the groups new Please Betty EP. The record has a very mild flow with Ted Savarese's vocal draw that is balanced with simple country songs that are delivered with simple instrumentation and have a distinct twang. It is this simplicity that with repeat listens Octomutt gain appeal because you appreciate the honest and sincere approach!

Key Track: "Please Betty"

Band With Similar Fire: Hank Williams

Official Octomutt Website
Octomutt MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Boxer Rebellion: Union

The Boxer Rebellion
Union
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Note Says: Out of nowhere comes The Boxer Rebellion!

Album Review:
The Boxer Rebellion may turn out to be the come back story of 2009. Back in 2003 the group won a competition and earned a slot at the Glastonbury Festival, which was followed by a highly anticipated record called Exits [2005]. Unfortunately the release did not do very well commercially or critically and the group found themselves dropped from their label. That was enough to probably break any band but they marched on and now have self-released and self-produced their sophomore record Union. The first single "Evacuate" was made iTunes international single of the week which helped push the iTunes exclusive album release Union into the US and UK iTunes Top 5. It was as simple as a iTunes dude contacting them because he liked their MySpace page. Now I am sure the labels are calling because Union is a solid piece of sprawling Brit pop that contains elements of Coldplay, Snow Patrol, The Killers and even Radiohead. Union has a balance that works well into The Boxer Rebellion's favor because they offer adventurous tracks like the five minute opener "Flashing Red Light Means Go" and the six minute slow burner "Misplaced", while mixing in three minute bursts like the first single "Evacuate" and the catchy "Spitting Fire". The Boxer Rebellion do not offer anything completely new but what they do offer is a fresh "leave it all on the table" approach to their music that oozes a bands fight back into the scene while Union sounds like a release from your favorite veteran band. This is a sound and vibe that is hard to come by and The Boxer Rebellion just make it look easy!

Key Tracks: "Evacuate", "Spitting Fire", "The Gospel Of Goro Adachi"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Snow Patrol
Embrace
The Verve

Official Boxer Rebellion Website
The Boxer Rebellion MySpace
The Boxer Rebellion Info [Allmusic]

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Animal Collective: Merriweather Post Pavilion

Animal Collective
Merriweather Post Pavilion
Domino Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Not only is this one of Animal Collective's most accessible albums to date it is also one of their best. Merriweather Post Pavilion finds duel vocalists Dave Portner and Noah Lennox sounding completely comfortable in their roles and displays a sixth sense that each one knows what the other is thinking because their vocals completely gel, which increases the catchiness on every track. The in your face noises beep and blip in and out but you don't even notice because they lock into the dance rock beats and the layered harmonies that keep the listener totally mystified - that does not happen very ofter consistenly on any album but Merriweather Post Pavilion does it to you track after track. This is an album that not only will probably land high in the 2009 Top 50 but also in the decade Top 50!

Key Track: "Brother Sport"

Band With Similar Fire: Deerhunter

Official Animal Collective Website
Animal Collective MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Bon Iver: Blood Bank [EP]

Bon Iver
Blood Bank [EP]
Jagjaguwar Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Bon Iver's debut For Emma, Forever Ago was technically self-released in 2007 and then of course the critical praise came upon its re-release in 2008. It would seem now that Bon Iver is golden and this four track Blood Bank EP is exciting because it is his first new material in awhile and it shows that his debut was no fluke. The songs are consistent, hush and the closing track "Woods" is completely different with vocal effects that are intriguing and haunting while allowing you to realize that this is why Bon Iver is the "it" artist right now!

Key Track: "Woods"

Band With Similar Fire: Iron & Wine

Bon Iver: For Emma, Forever Ago [Fire Note Review 2/15/08]

Official Bon Iver Website
Bon Iver MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sholi: Dreams Before People [EP]

Sholi
Dreams Before People [EP]
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
This avant-rock trio from the San Fran area are ready to take the indie world by storm. This is a tour only EP that showcases their capabilities in a small package. The group has a very mellow vibe with their soft vocals and calm strumming, while each song has an inner layer that is completely infectious. The EP concludes with "Hejrat" which is a cover song from Googoosh that puts a exclamation point on Sholi's range. Their new self-titled record releases on Quaterstick Records 2/17/09 which should be great if it follows this formula! Make sure you visit to Touch and Go/Quaterstick for a free download of this EP.

Key Track: "Dreams Before People"

Band With Similar Fire: Fleet Foxes

Hejrat (mp3) (Originally by Googoosh)

Bonus mp3 found on Hejrat 7"
Sprout And The Bean (mp3) (Originally by Joanna Newsom)

Official Sholi Website
Sholi MySpace

Buy at iTunes Music Store

-Reviewed by Christopoher Anthony

Antony And The Johnsons: The Crying Light

Antony And The Johnsons
The Crying Light
Secretly Canadian Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: A true work of art from Antony (again)!

Album Review:
The Crying Light is the much anticipated third release from the eclectic Antony And The Johnsons following their Mercury Prize winning and critically lauded 2005 record I Am A Bird Now. Just by taking one glance at the legendary Butoh dancer Kazuo Ohno that graces the cover of this record you just know that you are in for another interesting and fantastic 40 minute journey through the world of group leader Antony Hegarty. The Crying Light is a record that no matter where you tune into it, there is something that occurs which simply takes your breath away - be it the powerful violin that strums feverishly in the peppier "Kiss My Name", Hegarty's dynamic range which never seems to have an end nor break on "Epilepsy Is Dancing" or the striking closer "Everglade" with its blown out orchestra arrangement with the help of Nico Muhly, whom has worked with Bjork and provided the music to the Golden Globe winning movie The Reader (2008). It is a record of simplicity, even though it has a thematic focus on Antony's relationship with the natural world and many complex orchestrated moments, the energy all comes out in planned and controlled bursts. This precision is what solidifies The Crying Light as a piece of art that regardless of the time of day, day of the week or hemisphere you are on it will engulf you and take you out of the normal grind, which for many is much needed! For new listeners to Antony And The Johnsons, I simply recommend that you give it several spins before discarding because Hegarty's voice is an acquired taste but once you are on board you will certainly appreciate The Crying Light well beyond 2009!

Key Tracks: "Another World", "Everglade", "Epilepsy Is Dancing"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Rufus Wainwright
Hercules And Love Affair
Jeff Buckley

Official Antony And The Johnsons Website
Antony And The Johnsons MySpace
Antony And The Johnsons Info [Allmusic]
Secretly Canadian Records

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Andrew Bird: Noble Beast

Andrew Bird
Noble Beast
Fat Possum Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
This is Andrew Bird's fifth solo record and like Armchair Apocrypha [2007] he has stayed the course of the singer/songwriter crafting an indie pop record that is full of exciting turns and spins. What you know you are going to get with Bird is his intricat arrangements and detail to lyrics which shine though track after track on Noble Beast. The other thing about Bird that never vanishes from his records are the throwback jazzy moments of his Squirrel Nut Zipper days, which I believe add depth to his superb catalog and right here on another solid offering with Noble Beast.

Key Track: "Fitz And Dizzyspells"

Band With Similar Fire: Sufjan Stevens

Official Andrew Bird Website
Andrew Bird MySpace

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Blue Eyed Blacks: Black Eyed Soul

Blue Eyed Blacks
Black Eyed Soul
Chicken Ranch Records [2008]








Fire Drills Says:
Black Eyed Soul is the hard work of Jason Moon Wilkins and it represents a stand out resume and a solid two years putting the record together. He has been in several bands and more notably a bassist for Josh Rouse and Garrison Starr. Wilkins has made a lot of friends along the way and Black Eyed Soul taps into those contacts which include Garrison Starr, vocalist Betsy Roo (who co-wrote the Dolly Parton song "Jesus & Gravity"), Justin Townes Earle (Bloodshot Records), Billy Mercer (Ryan Adams), and Rollum Haas (The Features, Brendan Benson). It is this solid musicianship and Wilkins honest vocals that make Blue Eyed Blacks a band to check out and a debut record in Black Eyed Soul to take for a ride.

Key Track: "The Trouble With Kate"

Band With Similar Fire: The National

Blue Eyed Blacks MySpace

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

National Snack: Apply Machine [EP]

National Snack
Apply Machine [EP]
Scatty Cat Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
The National Snack are a three piece from the UK that play a very funky rock that shows off that they were influenced by the likes of the B-52s and Frank Zappa but also have a grinding rock side to them like The Subways and even the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The group shifts lead vocals from track to track between Gemma Storr and Joe Carlo that works to keep things interesting and offers up a lot of different looks in just 15 minutes. The band is working on a full length and if Apply Machine is a tell it should be a rockin' fun time with their energy and sass!

Key Track: "Rock N Roll"

Band With Similar Fire: The Subways

Official National Snack Website
National Snack MySpace

-Reviewed by Natalie Colibri

Darren Gaines & The Key Party: My Blacks Don't Match

Darren Gaines & The Key Party
My Blacks Don't Match
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Note Says: Gaines gives life to The Key Party and releases his best record to date!

Album Review:
Most people are probably not familiar with Darren Gaines but we have been quietly following his career since 2002 and his then underrated rock band The Great Shakes. After several solid EPs the band imploded but Gaines has continued to produce music and My Blacks Don't Match is his sophomore Key Party record but the first official release under the full name Darren Gaines & The Key Party. This is important to note because where Hit Or Miss [2006] was more of a one man creative output - My Blacks Don't Match is the real band deal involving 10 musicians and instruments that include trumpet, saxophone, tuba, and even a bit of violin. The record was produced by Ken Rich (Joseph Arthur) and includes all of the lyrical subject matter that could only be created from the streets of New York. Making this record, Gaines found himself laid off, evicted by treacherous landlords and even completed a move to Brooklyn. The lyrics are one thing but when you add Gaines gruff Tom Waits style delivery the songs completely come to life. This of course would not be possible if not for the Key Party because without the addition and punctuation of the bands instruments, My Blacks Don't Match would never quite come together. It is this cohesion which brings the songs to full potential, make the stories feel real and allows Gaines's croon to take full command. And command he does as Gaines takes the listener though his eleven swaying, jazzy and devilish sounding tracks, which by conclusion you are ready to attend the party again!

Key Tracks: "Nightshade", "Good Old Days (Wash Away)", "Speechless"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Tom Waits
Mark Lanegan
James Jackson Toth

Official The Key Party Website
Darren Gaines & The Key Party MySpace

Darren Gaines & The Key Party: Demo EP [Fire Note Review 1/21/08]
The Key Party: Hit Or Miss [Fire Note Review 10/13/06]

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Angus And Julia Stone: The Beast [EP]

Angus And Julia Stone
The Beast [EP]
Nettwerk Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
If you live Down Under you are probably already familiar with the award winning brother/sister duo of Angus And Julia Stone and thanks to Nettwerk Records the rest of us now can get a listen.
The duo alternate lead vocals while offering perfectly timed harmonies which are completely infectious. Their songs cover a spectrum a styles that include folk, pop, lo-fi, hi-fi and acoustic, which for some that might be too much but for fans of Angus and Julia, not knowing what comes next is part of the appeal! These EPs are simply a teaser to the release of their critically lauded full length in March.

Key Track: "The Beast"

Band With Similar Fire: Travis

Official Angus And Julia Stone Website
Angus And Julia Stone MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Sarah Rabdau And Self-Employed Assassins: Sarah Rabdau And Self-Employed Assassins

Sarah Rabdau And Self-Employed Assassins
Sarah Rabdau And Self-Employed Assassins
Say It With Scissors Records [2009]





Fire Drills Review:
When you have a stellar voice like Sarah Rabdau everything else really should fall into place. On her self-titled album with the Self-Employed Assassins that is exactly what happens as her crystal clear and siren like vocals meld with the instrumentation of piano, violin and drums. The songs very in tempo from some more outright upbeat foot tappers like "Weekend" or the more quiet "Autumn Spills" that rely heavily on Rabdau's pleasant vocals. Sarah Rabdau And Self-Employed Assassins have been honing their skills since 2005 and this release showcases all of their hard work and it is solid from beginning to end!

Key Track: "Weekend"

Band With Similar Fire: Tori Amos

Jackie (mp3)

Official Sarah Rabdau Website
Sarah Rabdau MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

D.O.A.: Northern Avenger

D.O.A.
Northern Avenger
Sudden Death Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
D.O.A. have been around longer then most Fire Drills readers probably have been alive but if you check out their new release Northern Avenger you will get a quick taste of what the Vancouver group has been doing for thirty years. What is most interesting about Northern Avenger is that the record was produced by famed Bob Rock (Metallica) but don't think he tamed the band. Songs like "Devil's Speedway" and "This Machine Kills Fascists" keep their punk roots and politics alive while a CCR cover of "Who Will Stop The Rain?" shows a little lighter side D.O.A. but together the group delivers fifteen tracks of their best in quite awhile!

Key Track: "California Hardcore Last Chance"

Band With Similar Fire: Black Flag

Official D.O.A. Website
D.O.A. MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

We will be observing the Holiday today. See you back tomorrow.

Robert Pollard: The Crawling Distance

Robert Pollard
The Crawling Distance
Guided By Voices Inc. Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: Get ready to wave your lighter high in the air!

Album Review:
There is always a method to the madness but sometimes it takes the right piece to make it all clear. The new record from Robert Pollard titled The Crawling Distance is exactly that piece. As Pollard continues his prolific post-GBV career he has started to make some clear divisions in his work and his albums are the beneficiaries. Where before Pollard's material could sound similar regardless of the moniker placed on the record, The Crawling Distance continues the stance started on last years excellent solo outing Off To Business [2008], which is to offer a more complete and concise package of well thought out and developed songs with many of them hitting the 3 and 4 minute mark. The Crawling Distance highlights this new direction with seven out of the ten tracks falling into a more balladry style that draws a microscope to Pollard's vocals and lyrics, which as always are completely intriguing and it offers the chance to really hear how good his voice sounds. This is not to say that there are still not some rockin' songs here because the two tracks that bookend a string of ballads "Cave Zone" and "By Silence Be Destroyed", rock just as hard as anything Pollard has released. While the Boston Spaceships mark the other side of the Pollard fence and continue his rock n roll journey, his solo records are placing him, now more than ever, into a singer/songwriter genre that suits him well. Sometimes its nice knowing what you are going to get!

Key Tracks: "Cave Zone", "No Island", "Imaginary Queen Anne"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Bob Mould
Colin Meloy
Robyn Hitchcock

Robert Pollard: The Butler Stands For All Of Us 7" [Fire Drills Review 11/11/08]
Robert Pollard: Robert Pollard Is Off To Business [Fire Note Review 6/16/08]
Robert Pollard: Superman Was A Rocker [Fire Note Review 2/12/08]
Robert Pollard: Coast To Coast/Gargoyle [Fire Note Review 10/16/07]
Robert Pollard: Silverfish Trivia EP [Fire Note Review 4/23/07]
Robert Pollard: Normal Happiness [Fire Note Review 10/12/06]
Robert Pollard: From A Compound Eye [Fire Note Review 4/19/06]

Official Robert Pollard Website
Robert Pollard MySpace
Robert Pollard Info [Allmusic]
GBV Inc. Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

East Hundred: Passenger

East Hundred
Passenger
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Passenger is Philadelphia's East Hundred's long time coming debut record after starting out just as a basement recording project in 2004. The group has a charismatic and powerful lead vocalist in front woman Beril Guceri, whose vocals have a smooth and relaxing effect on the listener as her pitch perfect delivery guides you through each synth, guitar and drum ladden track. Passenger was well worth the wait as this five-piece have honed their skills and are ready to be heard with 9 songs that are vibrant, lush and catchy.

Key Track: "Plus Minus"

Band With Similar Fire: Star 69

Slow Burning Crimes (mp3)

Official East Hundred Website
East Hundred MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Church Animals: The Bathtub [EP]

The Church Animals
The Bathtub [EP]
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
The Church Animals are a husband and wife duo who make all kinds of things that includes art, music and tasty treats. The groups The Bathtub [EP] is a quick 15 minute lo-fi indie nugget that is nice and simple acoustic strumming with back n forth vocals that is not only sincere but completely infectious. The Bathtub [EP] is one of those records that you don't give much notice until it spins and you quickly find yourself tapping your feet and singing backup harmonies - that is when you know you are onto something!

Key Track: "Yogurt Park"

Band With Similar Fire: The Moldy Peaches

The Church Animals MySpace
Buy CD

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Peasant: On The Ground

Peasant
On The Ground
Paper Garden Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Refreshing soft indie from singer/songwriter Peasant!

Album Review:
Peasant really is Damien DeRose of Doylestown, PA and his sophomore record On The Ground will fit perfectly in your indie collection. Peasant is as simple as the small town DeRose comes from. Armed with only an uplifting vocal style and a quiet acoustic guitar Peasant surrounds the listener with a humble confidence as he strolls through his thirteen songs in just 35 minutes. These quick glimpses of DeRose's life through a perspective that finds splendor and calmness in the small things is refreshing to listen to and you don't even need to look deeper than some of the titles with songs like "Birds", "The Wind" and "Fine Is Fine" in order to find it. Peasant has already opened for bands like Delta Spirit, Bodies Of Water and Takka Takka plus has had songs appear in episodes of Bones and Kyle XY so based on the strength of On The Ground there is a good chance you will hear more from this troubadour and that is a good thing!

Key Tracks: "The Wind", "Those Days", "Birds"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Bon Iver
Paul Simon
Elvis Perkins

Official Peasant Website
Peasant MySpace
Paper Garden Recrods

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The All-American Rejects: When The World Comes Down

The All-American Rejects
When The World Comes Down
Geffen Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I will tell you upfront that this disc disappointed me on several levels. The first level is that The All-American Rejects try too hard to be radio friendly. On many of the tracks here they have been polished beyond recognition. The second level is that I really liked this bands self titled debut when they were back on Doghouse Records and it was about the music. There is nothing wrong with popularity or writing catchy songs but they need to be sincere - Not much on When The World Comes Down feels that way even though there still are a couple tracks that show the power pop talent AAR possess but unfortunately they are far a few between.

Key Track: "Real World"

Band With Similar Fire: Fall Out Boy

Official All-American Rejects Website
The All-American Rejects MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Los Straitjackets: Smells Like Teen Spirit [Single]

Los Straitjackets
Smells Like Teen Spirit [Single]
Yep Roc Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
You can never look down on the uniqueness that is the Los Straitjackets. Over the last ten years the band has created their own version of surf guitar that includes wearing Mexican wrestling masks. When you listen to their albums the band always brings a solid scorching so it is no surprise that they covered Smells Like Teen Spirit. It is a pretty straight forward instrumental version but still has the Straitjackets trademark twang which makes it a must for fans and a novelty for Nirvana lovers. Side Note: Los Straitjackets new album is tentatively set to release in April.

Band With Similar Fire: The Sonics

Official Los Straitjackets Website
Los Straitjackets MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

A.C. Newman: Get Guilty

A.C. Newman
Get Guilty
Matador Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Do you want to harmonize?

Album Review:
Let's be honest with each other - Can you really have a bad A.C. Newman record? That answer should be a simple no as the man behind the pop excellence of the collective New Pornographers releases his sophomore album next week. This follows his superb power pop debut The Slow Wonder [2004] so I am not sure that Get Guilty could ever live up to the five years of expectations but it does its best. Right out of the gate opening track "There Are Maybe Ten Or Twelve" grabs you instantly with Newman's story telling and simply likable vocals as the song serves as more of a short grandiose entrance of what is in store for the listener in the next 40 minutes. Get Guilty makes no excuses nor offers much of a formula change from the rest of his catalog. This could be a distraction for some that would love to hear Newman go completely acoustic or shake his style up a bit but for fans this will not be a barrier because Get Guilty has the same catchiness of a New Pornographers record and has the same upbeat energy. To help with his musical magic Newman pulls in drummer Jon Wurster (Superchunk/ Mountain Goats), Nicole Atkins and the Mates Of States, which each add an element of professionalism and quality to each track they touch. Get Guilty is not going to wow everyone like The Slow Wonder did but it is a record that still gets better with every spin and never gets old - do you really need anything else then that?

Key Tracks: "Like A Hitman, Like A Dancer", "The Palace At 4 A.M.", "Young Atlantis"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Brendan Benson
The New Pornographers
Ben Folds

Official A.C. Newman Website
A.C. Newman MySpace
A.C. Newman Info [Allmusic]
Matador Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Ben Nichols: The Last Pale Light In The West [EP]

Ben Nichols
The Last Pale Light In The West [EP]
The Rebel Group [2009]







Fire Drills Review:
Lucero frontman makes his solo debut on this EP with an interesting twist - the lyrics and songs were inspired from the Cormac McCarthy novel Blood Meridian. The EP does not stray too far from the Lucero sound but Nichols delivers a very heartfelt and emotional performance as you can tell he is really into these tracks. What also does not change is Nichols' rough and gruff voice which fits perfectly in songs about going West, outlaws and preachers!

Key Track: "Davy Brown"

Band With Similar Fire: Jim Ward

Official Lucero Website
Lucero MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Weight: Are Men

The Weight
Are Men
Tee Pee Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
The Weight are a straight up twangy rock band from Brooklyn that play hard, sing loud, and generally sound like they are having a great time. Are Men has a laid back feel to it but musically it is tight and comes complete with sing along choruses, three-part harmonies and solid guitar work. The Weight offers everything you want from this type of album, which is some hearty gang vocals, just the right balance of country in the rock and the feeling that seeing them live is going to blow your mind!

Key Track: "Had It Made"

Band With Similar Fire: The Bottle Rockets

Official The Weight Website
The Weight MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

I Call Fives: First Things First [EP]

I Call Fives
First Things First [EP]
Open Your Eyes Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
There is something to be said for some pop punk that is catchy, quick and harmonic. New Jersey's I Call Fives debut EP is just that at 7 songs in 23 minutes. There is nothing on this EP that puts the band ahead of the pack but they also aren't at the bottom with memborable songs, high energy and an overall solid sound.

Key Track: "Ready To Go"

Band With Similar Fire: Jimmy Eat World

I Call Fives MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Easton Stagger Phillips: One For The Ditch

Easton Stagger Phillips
One For The Ditch
Rebeltone Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: Three talented guys making great music!

Album Review:
One For The Ditch is a record that definitely has been flying under the radar since its release last year from the collaborative group of singer/songwriters Tim Easton, Leeroy Stagger and Evan Phillips. Individually these three artists have been putting a stamp on the indie Americana scene with Easton being the most "known" and recording with New West Records. ESP sets the tone on the first three tracks as Stagger kicks off the record with "Hell Of A Life" which captures the essence of every struggling musician while Phillips "Highway 395" deals with the turmoil of a lengthy relationship and Easton simply talks about love on "In Love With You". What you notice immediately is that the individual personalities are set to the side and as a group they cover all the bases and offer up the best of what they have musically and lyrically. The real essential element of ESP's success is their three part harmonies and inviting vocal styles, which regardless of who is on the lead you won't really care because you will enjoy all three. This feeling really culminates at the midpoint with "Festival Song" that includes some great sing-a-long moments as well some great back n forth between all three artists. The other moment that makes the listener simply take in the music is the quieter Easton closing title track "One For The Ditch" that lets his strumming put you into the perfect trance and only pushing you in one direction upon completion - hit repeat and let ESP roll again!

Key Tracks: "Festival Song", "Hell Of A Life", "One For The Ditch"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Jayhawks
Crosby Stills & Nash
Ryan Adams & The Cardinals

Tim Easton: Ammunition [Fire Note Review 5/26/06]

ESP MySpace
Rebeltone Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Israel Nash Gripka: New York Town

Israel Nash Gripka
New York Town
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drills Says:
His name may not roll off your tongue but New York's Israel Nash Gripka roots rock full length debut New York Town could put him on your radar and rightfully so. Gripka's Fogerty/Adams vocal style leads each track with a bursting energy that is hard to capture on record especially when it is good. New York Town surrounds Gripka with a full band sound of piano and guitar that boosts the albums energy level to meet his enthusiasm that all equals quality songwriting, quality singing and a solid full length debut!

Key Track: "Pray For Rain"

Band With Similar Fire: Ryan Adams

Official Israel Nash Gripka Website
Israel Nash Gripka MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Russell Huie: Cheer The Bombs On [EP]

Russell Huie
Cheer The Bombs On [EP]
Canon Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
As you take Russell Huie's new EP Cheer The Bombs On for a spin you may think that his voice seems very familar. This familiarity comes from the simple fact that if you mixed up the vocal styles of Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright and Ron Sexmith you would come out with Huie's soft mix delivery, which is completely infectious. It is Huie's voice along with each building mid-tempo number that is the true strength of this EP and makes for a pretty good indie pop journey contained in a nice musically tight twenty minute package.

Key Track: "Brighter Dark"

Band With Similar Fire: Ron Sexsmith

Official Russell Huie Website
Russell Huie MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Glen Campbell: Meet Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell
Meet Glen Campbell
Capitol Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Clearly there are lots of youngsters out there that have no idea who Glen Campbell is hence the title of his new record Meet Glen Campbell. This record may be aimed at just that group with its interesting collection of ten cover tracks that Campbell tackles Travis, Green Day, Foo Fighters, U2, and Petty to just name a few. What anyone can appreciate is Campbell's inviting vocals and how he can take these more modern songs and put his simple pop country twist to them making the tracks his own. Meet Glen Campbell is an easy record to connect to a new generation and showcases that Glen Campbell's sound never went anywhere.

Key Track: "Times Like These"

Band With Similar Fire: Johnny Cash

Official Glen Campbell Website
Glen Campbell MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Late Of The Pier: Fantasy Black Channel

Late Of The Pier
Fantasy Black Channel
Astralwerks Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Hold onto your synthesizing hat!

Album Review:
There is always something to be said for the right place at the right time and that is the way I feel about a new import band from Castle Donington, England named Late Of The Pier. The band plays a style of electro-rock that has currently been earning many ears on this side of the ocean as the groups debut record Fantasy Black Channel gets its official US release tomorrow with several bonus tracks after being released last year across seas to a huge pile of positive reviews and five successful singles. Late Of The Pier puts you in the right mood on the sonic synthesizer instrumental opener "Hot Tent Blues" before it kicks into the futuristic glam-rockers of "Broken" and "Space And The Woods" and never looks back. Fantasy Black Channel not only captures the essence of the earlier pioneers of this synth style like Devo and Gary Numan but incorporates the undertone dance beats of a Bloc Party and TV On The Radio. The record is grandiose by design and feels that way on each sprawling track as Late Of The Pier crank along at a quick pace while not giving the listener much time to catch their breath. Late Of The Pier offer up an exorbitant amount of hill and valleys to explore so Fantasy Black Channel is an album that takes multiple listens in order to get your brain around it but once you are in - you are in 110% and will find yourself going back for more again and again!

Key Tracks: "White Snake", "Space And The Woods", "Heartbeat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Muse
Devo
MGMT

Official Late Of The Pier Website
Late Of The Pier MySpace
Late Of The Pier Info [Allmusic]
Astralwerks Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Boston Spaceships: Headache Revolution 7"

Boston Spaceships
Headache Revolution 7"
Happy Jack Rock Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Like we have to tell you that Robert Pollard moves fast and why should his new band the Boston Spaceships be any different. Headache Revolution is the first single to be released from their new forthcoming sophomore album The Planets Are Blasted. Three of the four tracks are out right rockers with crashing drums and crunchy guitar while "Dementia Is Rising" recalls the glory of the GBV lo-fi days. The longest track here is 2:22 and all three b side tracks are not included on the album. This 7 inch is limited to 500 copies so it is definitely worth picking up if you are a completest!

Key Track: " 7 Is The Hot Noose"

Band With Similar Fire: The Who

Boston Spaceships: Brown Submarine [Fire Note Review 9/16/08]

Official Boston Spaceships Website
Boston Spaceships MySpace
Official Robert Pollard Website

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Willie Breeding: Cheap Vodka Rain

Willie Breeding
Cheap Vodka Rain
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
It is always good to have friends and especially ones that are talented. Brooklyn singer/songwriter Willie Breeding called upon his buddies in Marah to lend a hand to his new record Cheap Vodka Rain which is a perfect complement to his folk country vocal delivery. The record comes complete with all the rock country staple instruments like the mandolin, pedal steel, fiddle, organ and backing harmonies that bring each song to their pinnacle. Breeding offers up a sincere and honest album that is great for those days when your sorrows seem to be circulating so you might as well let Willie share his!

Key Track: "Cheap Vodka Rain"

Band With Similar Fire: Ryan Adams

Willie Breeding MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

The Standard: Swimmer

The Standard
Swimmer
Partisan Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Portland's The Standard were lost in the whole V2 label debacle and decided to release their fifth album Swimmer on their own newly created Partisan imprint. Swimmer has a very complete and precise vibe to its complex song structures and with its catchy mid tempo numbers that build slowly and live and die with frontman Tim Putnam. It is his calm and likable vocals that make Swimmer one of the bands best pieces of work and deserves to be heard by more people then I know it has!

Key Track: "Swimmer"

Band With Similar Fire: The National

Official Standard Website
The Standard MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Leopold And His Fiction: Ain't No Surprise

Leopold And His Fiction
Ain't No Surprise
Native Fiction Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Sophomore record shows that debut was no fluke!

Album Review:
After the re-release of their 2006 debut record last year we now have a real time release from Leopold And His Fiction with their sophomore outing Ain't No Surprise. The big difference immediately noticeable is that they are no longer a duo and not only do they have a new drummer but added the bassist Micayla Grace to make three. What is consistent from the debut is the bluesy garage rock vocals of Daniel James that at times sounds like the rebirth of Jim Morrison and is completely infectious all of the time. He has the capability to handle the scorching slow burners like "Hawk Eyes" with insane controlled intensity while sounding complete at ease on ballads such as "Tiger Lily". The key about Leopold And His Fiction is that the trio is completely tight and incorporate a real southern edged flare to their music while not going too far with the twang. The group includes some rolling organ at times in the background which gives them a classic sounding touch from the past but as each song builds and rocks out you know it fits into today's scene. Leopold And His Fiction is a band that I am sure are not on many indie heads radar but after taking Ain't No Surprise for a spin they will realized Leopold could be a band to watch for in 2009!

Key Tracks: "Hawk Eyes", "Ain't No Surprise", "Katie Mae"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Greenhornes
Golden Animals
The White Stripes

Come Back (Now That I'm Here) (mp3)

Leopold And His Fiction: Leopold And His Fiction [Fire Note Review 4/25/08]

Official Leopold And His Fiction Website
Leopold And His Fiction MySpace
Native Fiction Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Sin Fang Bous: Advent In Ives Garden

Sin Fang Bous
Advent In Ives Garden
Morr Music [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Sin Fang Bous offer up a nice collection of 12 songs that stylistically fall into a hush indie pop category sprinkled with some background blips, beeps and keyboard. The catchiness of each track starts and stops with singer/songwriter Sindri Már Sigfússon. His voice is soft like Sufjan Stevens but he is able to combine his harmonies to mirror the layered pop of the Fleet Foxes. Sigfússon has a unique ability to keep the electronic pieces of his music more hidden and used as a backdrop instead of a constant so that they enhance the music and don't detract from it. The balance of this mix and the memorable harmonies make repeat listens of Advent In Ives Garden a solid return of time investment and Sin Fang Bous an obscure band to share with your "cool" friends!

Key Track: "Melt Down The Knives"

Band With Similar Fire: Fleet Foxes

Catch The Light (mp3)

Sin Fang Bous MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Gang Gang Dance: Saint Dymphna

Gang Gang Dance
Saint Dymphna
The Social Registry [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
If you are new to this band then after experiencing the opening instrumental track "Beby" you might not be sure where Gang Gang Dance will go but on the bands forth album the Brooklyn collective kick right into their style of space jam world tunes complete with the tribal beats. If you think Saint Dymphna is a retread of some previous work - think again because on songs like "Princes" the group kicks into a rocking rap and funky beat that kills out some great speakers while "House Jam" showcases the popsters in the group as it hums along. Gang Gang Dance are one of those bands that constantly are going to push boundaries and always offer up a good surprise in their records - Saint Dymphna does just that!

Key Track: "Princes"

Band With Similar Fire: Black Dice

Official Gang Gang Dance Website
Gang Gang Dance MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Brighton MA: Amateur Lovers

Brighton MA
Amateur Lovers
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Brighton MA actually hails from Chicago IL, but take their name from singer Matthew Kerstein's birthplace. Several of its members used to play in The Scotland Yard Gospel Choir so you might think that Brighton MA debut might be full of lush indie pop but the reality is that the record is full of warm and heartfelt rock n roll tracks. Most of the songs are mid-tempo in pace and use a wide scale of instrumentation but the end result is quality lyrics and quality musicianship making Amateur Lovers a worthy debut to check out.

Key Track: "Sunblinded"

Band With Similar Fire: Wilco

Official Brighton MA Website
Brighton MA MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Turnbull AC's: Small Town Parade

The Turnbull AC's
Small Town Parade
Tiberius Records [2008]








Fire Note Says: One of the best bands you have never heard!

Album Review:
Small Town Parade is the sophomore record from one of Cincinnati's best indie rock bands The Turnbull AC's. The band originally was started in 2005 by Dan Mecher as a solo project but quickly became a full band that released a locally well received self-titled debut that earned several Cincy awards including the 2006 Artist of the Year. With Small Town Parade there has been some lineup changes that has made the band musically tighter including the addition of Brad Stenz from Moth, which had a major label release back in 2002. With an already solid record in the groups catalog, Small Town Parade still accomplishes progression with a more cohesive sound, relaxed song structures and a cleaner sounding production. Mecher has a quality to his voice that feels right at home when he sings that is engaging and inviting, especially on foot tappers like "The Gentleman's Club" and "Findlay Market" that come complete with group sing along moments that as a listener you love. The Turnbull AC's bring a lot to the table in a short 8 song just over 3o minutes sophomore record that is as much about offering quality music as it is about telling stories that keep your ears to the lyrics. This combination makes for great repeat listens and should be a group that you seek out for some solid good ol rock n' roll that won't disappoint!

Key Tracks: "Love Me To Death (Busted Wheel)", "Mrs. Templeton", "The Gentlemen's Club"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Limbeck
The Replacements
The Weakerthans

Official Turnbull AC's Website
The Turnbull AC's MySpace
Tiberius Records [Buy CD]

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Fall Out Boy: Folie A Deux

Fall Out Boy
Folie A Deux
Island Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
This is what I like about Fall Out Boy - They have some indie cred. They put out catchy tunes. I believe they actually try to release quality records. It is not to say that they don't have faults like several tracks on Folie A Deux sound like them trying to hard to sound grown up but it comes off just like they are trying too hard then really good. Overall though if you remove those selected moments, Folie A Deux is still a pretty good emo power pop record that I must admit is catchy in more then just one spot.

Key Track: "I Don't Care"

Band With Similar Fire: Panic At The Disco

Fall Out Boy: Infinity On High [Fire Note Review 3/13/07]

Official Fall Out Boy Website
Fall Out Boy MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The Lucksmiths: First Frost

The Lucksmiths
First Frost
Matinee Recordings [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Australia's Lucksmiths probably have not received enough credit on this continent for being good. First Frost could change many newbies opinions about the band because it 14 tracks of solid indie pop which is absolutely pleasing to listen to. This record marks their ninth studio long player and it showcases their veteran status as seasoned musicians, competent songwriters and most importantly knowing the art of creating hook friendly gems that don't leave your head!

Key Track: "California In Popular Song"

Band With Similar Fire: The Go-Betweens

Official Lucksmiths Website
The Lucksmiths MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

The End Of The World: French Exit

The End Of The World
French Exit
Pretty Activity Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I believe Brooklyn should have received the most responsible for quality band releases award in 2008 because The End Of The World is another group that calls it home and has a solid album in French Exit to offer listeners. TEOTW has a Strokes/Walkmen sound to them with a slight folk angle that sets them apart and gives them a different approach. It is this more laid back vibe of The End Of The World which makes French Exit successful because the record never goes over the top and leaves the listener with that feeling of needing to hit repeat!

Key Track: "Jody"

Band With Similar Fire: The Walkmen

Official End Of The World Website
The End Of The World MySpace

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Plushgun: Pins & Panzers

Plushgun
Pins & Panzers
Tommy Boy Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Plushgun hits you hard with their sweet style of synth rock!

Album Review:
What started out as the one man show of Daniel Ingala and his moniker Plushgun has now developed into a full fledge band and Pins & Panzers is the groups full length debut. It is a record full of upbeat bouncy synthized indie gems that stick with you instantly and sound very similar to a Postal Service on uppers. The band has already been earning great praise for their video "Just Impolite" that was directed by Tyler Shields, featuring Juno Temple (“The Other Boleyn Girl,” “Atonement,”), Brittany Snow (“Hairspray,” “Prom Night,”) and Shiloh Fernandez (upcoming “Cadillac Records” and “The United States of Tara”) which also recently won on MTVu's The Freshman and the hype will only continue based on this records strenghs. Pins & Panzers clocks in just under 40 minutes so it never wears out its welcome and it also contains all four songs from the groups excellent debut EP released last August. Ingala writes intelligent and meaningful lyrics, which enhances the record's credibility and with the injection of really catchy soft harmonies, Pins & Panzers holds up to repeat listens and is already one of our favorite records to just put on in 2009!

Key Tracks: "Just Impolite", "Dancing In A Minefield", "An Aria"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Postal Service
New Order
The Age Of Rockets

Plushgun: Plushgun EP [Fire Drills Review 8/25/08]

Official Plushgun Website
Plushgun MySpace
Plushgun Info [Allmusic]
Tommy Boy Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Women: Women

Women
Women
Jagjaguwar Records [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
Women is an odd, interesting and spectacular group that offers a noisy yet artsy self-titled debut. The group members have toured as part of Sub Pop's Chad VanGaalen's band so it is no surprise that he also recorded Women while adding his own basement tweaks to the record. What is tough for the average indie listener is that Women offer both crazy noise filled tracks that distort, pip and pop while also having some very memorable choruses. For me it is this diversity that sets Women alone out on the fringe with only a handful of bands that have tried to successfully make this sound cohesive and listenable. Women totally pulls it off and are just one of those bands that you can't wait to see what they do next!

Key Track: "Black Rice"

Band With Similar Fire: Sonic Youth

Women MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Spinnerette: Ghetto Love [EP]

Spinnerette
Ghetto Love [EP]
Self-Released [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
I must admit I was huge Distillers fan and that also means I was a huge Brody Dale fan. Spinnerette is Dale's new musical vehicle and this 4 track EP is a long overdue preview of what we can expect from the groups debut full length tentatively set for a February release. Their sound is a real mixture of the Distillers punk, Eagles Of Death Metal rock and the pop side of Garbage. What is different here from her previous vehicle is that the EP does not have one track that totally unleashes Dale's killer vocal chords on ten but does show off her solid singing voice on the beat heavy and pleasantly subdued "Distorting A Code". The Ghetto Love EP sparks the interest and backs up why the new Spinnerette record is one of our most anticipated releases for 2009!

Key Track: "Valium Knights"

Band With Similar Fire: Eagles Of Death Metal

Official Spinnerette Website
Spinnerette MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

B. Fleischmann: Angst Is Not A Weltanschauung!

B. Fleischmann
Angst Is Not A Weltanschauung!
Morr Music [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
On the nine-song Angst Is Not a Weltanschauung! electronic guru B. Fleischmann moves into a more indie territory and even lets his own Nick Cave like vocals appear on two of the albums tracks. Of course he uses several guest vocalists with the most notable being Daniel Johnston on
"Phones, Machines And King Kong" that keeps the record moving, diverse and interesting. There is also just the right balance of good beat heavy electronic numbers for longtime fans including the staggering fourteen minute closer "Even Your Glasses Miss Your Eyes" that should make Angst Is Not a Weltanschauung! a worthy pickup for anyone that knows B. Fleischmann by name.

Key Track: "Phones, Machines And King Kong"

Band With Similar Fire: Field Mice

24.12 (mp3)

Official B. Fleischmann Website
B. Fleishchmann MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Glasvegas: Glasvegas

Glasvegas
Glasvegas
Columbia Records [2009]








Album Review:
Glasvegas are a four-piece from Glasgow that were pushed to the forefront by industry mogul Alan McGee - the man that "discovered" Oasis. Ever since, they have been building hype with solid singles and now their self-titled release backs it up as it has been getting consistent rave reviews over seas. Glasvegas self-titled debut now releases here in the States with two extra tracks and the band has all the components to make it big - they sing about social troubles, each song is not only catchy but has a deep meaning, and they can hit you with a wall of sound only appropriate for a stadium. The band has the ability to combine the reverb of a Jesus And Mary Chain while creating thematic memorable tracks like U2 that easily stick in your head long after completion. Glasvegas take each song to the next level with simple little extras such as on the opener "Flowers & Football Tops" which trails off in closure with the most heartwrenchting version of "You Are My Sunshine" that sets the tone for the groups focus and substance. The big sprawling single "Geraldine" is foot tapping peppy as the groups instrumentation swirls around lead vocalist James Allan's vocals and leaves you wanting more. The record was produced by Allan and Rich Costey (Muse, Franz Ferdinand) which helps Glasvegas sound like seasoned veterans on a debut record that is emotional, pulsing and sonic that gets more intriguing with every spin.

Key Tracks: "Geraldine", "Daddy's Gone", "Go Square Go"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Jesus And Mary Chain
Doves
The Clash

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

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Blue Giant: Target Heart [EP]

Blue Giant
Target Heart [EP]
Amore!Phonics Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
Kevin and Anita Robinson are better known as Portland, OR indie darlings Viva Voce. Instead of a new Viva album the duo have decided to launch a new band named Blue Giant which features members from The Decemberists, Swords and The Golden Bears plus this EP has the help of Sleater-Kinney frontwoman Corin Tucker on the track "Gone For Good". The groups sound is a mix of American country and classic rock that contains rich harmonies, superb storytelling and dark undertones. This combination makes for an excellent six track beginning of a band that sets the stage for an excellent and anticipated debut full length!

Key Track: "Hell Or High Water"

Band With Similar Fire: Horse Feathers

Target Heart (mp3)
Blue Sunshine (mp3)

Official Blue Giant Website
Blue Giant MySpace

Buy at eMusic Selects Blue Giant!

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Bicycles: Oh No, It's Love

The Bicycles
Oh No, It's Love
Fuzzy Logic Recordings [2008]








Fire Drills Review:
You never knew that the sun shined so bright up north in Canada but after taking The Bicycles bubblegum pop record Oh No, It's Love for one spin you might change your opinion. What helps drive their 60's inspired sound is that all four members take part in the vocals and pump out clean, catchy and memorable harmonies. What also keeps your interest and attention is that the record has a whopping 19 tracks that clock in at 37 minutes that shows The Bicycles have perfected the art of packing a punch in short concise tracks. The upside of this is that Oh No, It's Love offers multiple arrangements and styles while keeping a current pop oriented theme that ultimately helps the record be successful, enjoyable and infectious!

Key Track: "Won't She Be Surprised"

Band With Similar Fire: The Apples In Stereo

Official Bicycles Website
The Bicycles MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Fugitive Kind: You're Being Watched

Fugitive Kind
You're Being Watched
Castor Pollux Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
You're Being Watched is the debut record from Boston's Fugitive Kind. The album's nine tracks rely on the bluesy rock vocals of Lydia Marsala and her presence is fierce and unforgettable. This band can bring the noise like Queen Of The Stone Age with the punkness of the Gossip which offers the listener a tight musical package that is short, sweet and right to the rock point!

Key Track: "Break Now"

Band With Similar Fire: Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Break Now (mp3)

Fugitive Kind MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Just Like Heaven: A Tribute To The Cure

Various Artists
Just Like Heaven: A Tribute To The Cure
American Laundromat Records [2009]






Fire Note Says: If you are into the Cure and into indie you will be into this tribute!

Album Review:
I know that another Cure tribute album probably does not have you reeling with excitement for 2009 but after checking out the indie lineup of these 16 new covers your thoughts might change. Just Like Heaven features some indie names you should recognize like The Rosebuds, The Wedding Present, Dean & Britta, Tanya Donelly, Cassettes Won't Listen, The Submarines, Elk City and the new Black Francis collaboration with Violet Clark called Grand Duchy. Most of the interpretations are fairly safe and low key but each track is tackled with great respect. There are not necessarily any versions here that knock it out of the park where you would stamp it essential but fans of The Cure and fans of any of these artists will enjoy the effort. The real winner here of course is the Cure's catalog because their songs hold up well to whatever these artists bring to the table. Be it the male/female sincere vocals of Dean & Britta on "Friday I'm In Love", the more punked up version of "High" by The Wedding Present or even the staple Pixie guitar of Black Francis with Violet Clark's vocals on Grand Duchy's version of "A Strange Day". The song structures simply let the artists do their thing and sound superb regardless of style. At the end of the day this is an album that is nice to keep in your back pocket to throw on at a party to keep your friends guessing and should attract Cure fans that need it all because it definitely is an above average offering compared to your standard various artists collections!

Key Tracks: "Friday I'm In Love" - Dean & Britta, "High" - The Wedding Present, "Close To Me" - Elk City

American Laundromat Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Anya Marina: Slow & Steady Seduction Phase II

Anya Marina
Slow & Steady Seduction: Phase II
Chop Shop/Atlantic Records [2009]






Fire Drills Review:
Are you ready for a next big thing tag for 2009? Well get ready because radio DJ gone indie Anya Marina is prime for the spotlight. She has already been featured on Grey's Anatomy, which included a track on the soundtrack, she is on hipster label Chop Shop Records and has two songs on Slow & Steady written by, produced by and played on by Spoon man Britt Daniel. Slow & Steady has the constant undertones that it is ready to break out but Marina shows a nice balanced restraint, which creates an energy that is hard to capture on record. It is this likability and fine walking of the indie sounding fence that will carry Anya to an iPod near you very soon as the album drops this month.

Key Track: "Move You"

Band With Similar Fire: Gemma Hayes

Official Anya Marina Website
Anya Marina MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

In Endeavors: You've Got Your Friends, I've Got Mine [EP]

In Endeavors
You've Got Your Friends, I've Got Mine [EP]
Eugene Records [2009]







Fire Drills Review:
There is always plenty of room for bands that can pull off this sound and proudly rub shoulders with the likes of The Walkmen, Kings Of Leon and The Strokes as long as they can back it up with quality songs. Lexington, KY's In Endeavors do just that on their rocking 5 track debut EP, You've Got Your Friends, I've Got Mine, set to hit February 4. It is a fresh and spirited effort that does what every solid EP is supposed to - build the hype for a full length!

Key Track: "Private Eye"

Band With Similar Fire: The Strokes

Official In Endeavors Website
In Endeavors MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Casey Brandt: Restless As The Sun

Casey Brandt
Restless As The Sun
Mungler Winslowe Records [2008]







Fire Drills Review:
Restless As The Sun is Casey Brandt's 11th album that he has released on Mungler Winslowe Records since starting the label in 2001. The record contains 13 tracks that were recorded in his basement studio, which gives the album a very lo-fi but full sounding mix. Brandt's alternative Petty/Dylan like vocals weave tales that are intriguing and thoughtful while its pure sincerity rings through and through after repeat listens. This is the type of underground everyone loves to spin!

Key Track: "I See The Land Is Full"

Band With Similar Fire: Dan Bern

Casey Brandt MySpace

-Reviewed by Reece Michael