Friday, July 31, 2009

Set Your Goals: This Will Be The Death Of Us

Set Your Goals
This Will Be The Death Of Us
Epitaph Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Band gets sophomore record right!

Album Review:
Anymore, the world of pop-punk walks the line of being too polished, too cutesy, too fake and plain too cookie cutter. Luckily for us, Bay Area band and Warp Tour veterans Set Your Goals have released their sophomore record This Will Be The Death Of Us to remind all of us why we liked the genre in the first place and that it can still be done right! The band has went through several changes since their Mutiny! [2006] debut that includes new guitarists and shifting some of their more prominent hardcore moments into the background. That doesn't mean they have disappeared because on "Gaia Bleeds (Make Way For Man)" they are full throttle but on most of the tracks, strong guitar riffs and soaring pop-punk melodies from the duel vocal attack of Jordan Brown and Matt Wilson ring out with muscle. This is very evident on the lead single and title track, as well as on "The Few That Remain", which has an unforgettable guitar line and help from Paramore's Hayley Williams on vocals. This Will Be The Death Of Us is sharp in the right places, punk in the right places, pop in the right places, hardcore in the right places and simply puts the correct pieces all together to make one catchy and memorable album that most certainly will play great live!

Key Tracks: "This Will Be The Death Of Us", "The Few That Remain", "Look Closer"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Blink-182
New Found Glory
Saves The Day

Set Your Goals MySpace
Set Your Goals Info [Allmusic]
Epitaph Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: Up From Below

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Up From Below
Vagrant Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
Formed and led by Alex Ebert (Ima Robot), this 11 piece collective have released their debut record Up From Below, that goes in several different directions but aims to re-create the spirit of the 60's and 70's with their big sprawling psychedelia and folkish anthems. The open sway of the tracks here sound exactly how you can imagine, coming from a band that tours in an old Greyhound bus with their name scribbled on the side and has a bearded lead singer that most of the time is shirtless! All of this connects for Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, which overall provides an entertaining listen.

Key Track: "40 Day Dream"

Band With Similar Fire: Arcade Fire

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros MySpace
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros Info [Allmusic]
Vagrant Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Our Lady Peace: Burn Burn

Our Lady Peace
Burn Burn
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Burn Burn is Our Lady Peace's seventh record and follows many of the trends that have got the band this far. How Burn Burn differs compared to the groups catalog is that they are now free from any major label scrutiny. This translates to a more energized Our Lady Peace then we have heard in years and has them taking a few more risks when it comes to song structures, like the acoustic moment that hits in the last half of "Monkey Brains". Overall the band still has the same "rock" sound but Burn Burn shows they still have gas left in the tank.

Key Track: "Monkey Brains"

Bands With Similar Fire: Live

Official Our Lady Peace Website

Our Lady Peace MySpace
Our Lady Peace Info [Allmusic]


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Megafaun: Gather, Form & Fly

Megafaun
Gather, Form & Fly
Hometapes Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Eclectically solid!

Album Review:
Megafaun's sophomore record Gather, Form & Fly is just as eclectic sounding as their debut but where it differs is its success. That difference is cohesiveness. Without this element, songs structured by Megafaun would be lost at sea and never aide the listener. On Gather, Form & Fly the band did an excellent job of letting each track roll into the next, all while never making the transition difficult. With that explained, what you will find is that Megafaun offer bluesy guitar rock in "Solid Ground", a strolling country duet with Christy Smith, complete with banjo, on "The Longest Day" and memorable melodies on the catchy indie pop that is "The Fade". All of these tracks represent a different style, including several instrumentals, which instead of being a distraction, show a band that has many talents.

Key Tracks: "Solid Ground", "The Fade", "Worried Mind"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Kingsbury Manx
The Sea And The Cake
The Avett Brothers

Official Megafaun Website
Megafaun MySpace
Hometapes Records


-Reivewed by Robyn Gatsby

Generationals: Con Law

Generationals
Con Law
Park The Van Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Generationals is the new collaboration of Ted Joyner and Grant Widmer (formerly of Eames Era), which blend keyboards, guitars and beats to achieve their indie sound. The duo from New Orleans have just released their debut Con Law, which is a completely lo-fi recording that is full of pop melodies. The overall opinion is that the Generationals are still finding their niche, but Con Law sounds like a gifted band having fun and creates more then enough sing along highlights over the course of this concise 33 minute record to keep you coming back!

Key Track: "Angry Charlie"

Band With Similar Fire: MGMT

Official Generationals Website
Generationals MySpace
Generationals Info [Allmusic]
Park The Van Records



-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Wye Oak: The Knot

Wye Oak
The Knot
Merge Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Wye Oak's debut was widely critically praised, so the bar was very high for album number two - The Knot. The record does not live up to the debut but finishes just behind it. The duo of Jenn Wasner and Andy Stack are in their early twenties and still working on their ultimate direction. On The Knot, this tweak in direction includes less male/female combo vocals and an increased conscious effort at song structure, which translates into the over 7 minute "Mary Is Mary". I must admit a band like Wye Oak does not need to be epic and both members singing is what made If Children [2008] flow. Clearly not a stumble on The Knot and more like a trip, because there are enough catchy tracks to take fans a long way before discounting this talented band.

Key Track: "For Prayer"

Band With Similar Fire: St. Vincent

Official Wye Oak Website

Wye Oak MySpace
Wye Oak Info [Allmusic]
Merge Records


-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

The Builders And The Butchers: Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well

The Builders And The Butchers
Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well
Gigantic Music [2009]








Fire Note Says: Get ready to visit The Builders And The Butchers hell fire world!

Album Review:
Not sure if you are a church going person or not but Portland's The Builders And The Butchers have put together a record that tells the story about how light can be found in the darkest places. This is communicated to the listener by the bands neo-folk sound and tales of God, the Devil, wind, rain and hell fire. Lead singer Ryan Sollee is the power that drives the groups sophomore record Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well and he has a very Colin Meloy type delivery, which fit perfectly with producer Chris Funk from the Decemberists. It is a record that always feels on the edge with its somewhat unpolished sound and its crazy carnival album cover. Definitely don't get the impression that The Builders And The Butchers are actually welcomed to Sunday school with proclamations on the romping "In The Branches" that state over and over "You're going down down where the fire is born" or the surviving tall tale in "Vampire Lake" about bloodsucking and resurrecting bodies. Salvation Is A Deep Dark Well is a solid record and lyrically goes places you probably have not thought about visiting but musically elevates The Builders And The Butchers to the top tier of the ever more popular indie folk scene. This is definitely one Sunday lesson that you won't want to miss!

Key Tracks: "Down In This Hole", "Vampire Lake", "In The Branches"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Old Crow Medicine Show
The Decemberists


Official Builders And The Butchers Website

The Builders And The Butchers MySpace
The Builders And The Butchers Info [Allmusic]
Gigantic Music


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

St Helens: Heavy Profession

St Helens
Heavy Profession
Dot Dash Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Jarrod Quarrel and the sultry Hannah Brooks set the tone for Australia's St Helens and their low key bluesy debut Heavy Profession. The band seems completely laid back but in total control as Quarrel and Brooks interweave their vocals and sporadic guitar moments pop up and then disappear. At several points the record comes to a complete crawl but contains and creates a swagger that keeps your ear on every word. Heavy Profession is a record that takes several spins to get into but once you are there it rewards your time. St Helens have released an album that can fit any mood, any day and any playlist, so all you have to do is let them in!

Key Track: "Coffin Scratch"

Band With Similar Fire: Sonic Youth

St Helens MySpace
Dot Dash Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Owl City: Ocean Eyes

Owl City
Ocean Eyes
Universal Music Group [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Adam Young is the guy behind Owl City who was noticed after posting music on his MySpace page. Good for him but not necessarily good for us. This record is glossed up and simple with very little depth. Sure, several songs are somewhat catchy, but overall they still leave you comparing Owl City to another group that is better. I do believe that Adam Young is talented and I am sure Owl City will find its way onto several TV shows, so here is hoping he can cultivate his own niche for the next record.

Key Track: "Hello Seattle"

Band With Similar Fire: The Postal Service

Official Owl City Website
Owl City MySpace
Owl City Info [Allmusic]
Universal Music Group


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Trashcan Sinatras: In The Music

Trashcan Sinatras
In The Music
Lo-Five Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Soft indie pop masters return with In The Music!

Album Review:
In The Music marks the first album in five years from the Scottish dream pop band Trashcan Sinatras. The band returns with this solid collection of flowing and whimsical tunes that show you why they have been at the top of this genre for almost 20 years. The Sinatras have not lost their knack for creating tight melodies and wearing their emotions on their sleeves. In The Music
finds the band singing about the various aspects of love from beginning to end. The subject matter fits their style, although none of the ten tracks necessarily top their early career singles that put them on the college radio map, but the records overall quality showcases their now veteran status. In The Music gets better after every spin because the melodies start to stick with you and the Trashcan Sinatras just sound completely at ease. The band even features Carly Simon on "Should I Pray", which at first seems a bit odd but then I really couldn't think of a better person to sell their theme and compliment the bands overall approach - so just go with it and welcome the Trashcan Sinatras back!

Key Tracks: "I Hung My Harp Upon The Willows", "Oranges & Apples", "I Wish You'd Met Her"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Ocean Blue
Aztec Camera
The House Of Love

Official Trashcan Sinatras Website
Trashcan Sinatras MySpace
Trashcan Sinatras Info [Allmusic]
Lo-Five Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Howling Bells: Radio Wars

Howling Bells
Radio Wars
Nettwerk Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
London's Howling Bells are ready to take the music scene by storm on their sophomore release Radio Wars. The band is feeling hot after opening for big hitters Coldplay, The Killers and Snow Patrol while Radio Wars feels more grandiose in every way compared to the groups debut. Right down to their colorful album cover of close ups the Howling Bells record oozes with confidence and lead singer Juanita Stein is the main focus as her vocals are sharp, catchy and inviting. The overall result is a record that is pleasing to the ears but does not do enough to surpass their debut. This is neither a bad or good thing as the Howling Bells show great potential and should be a band to keep an eye on!

Key Track: "Treasure Hunt"

Band With Similar Fire: Great Northern

Howling Bells MySpace
Howling Bells Info [Allmusic]
Nettwerk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Monday, July 27, 2009

The Fiery Furnaces: I'm Going Away

The Fiery Furnaces
I'm Going Away
Thrill Jockey Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: No angle - just solid indie pop!

Album Review:
I'm Going Away is secretly the record many fans have wanted to see The Fiery Furnaces release for awhile now. It is not that their last several releases were not entertaining, but many times the records blurred the lines between art and oddity. On the groups eighth record, the Friedberger siblings put their best indie pop foot forward and set aside many of the eclectic song tricks that weaved in and out of their more recent releases. Much of this comes from Eleanor taking the lead vocal role by hold, as well as the lead song writer. She has a dedicated but relaxed vocal on every track that simply sways through melodies and remains completely memorable. It is this smokey coolness that lifts "Even In The Rain" up with its sunny chorus and the angry almost spoken delivery in "Staring At The Steeple". What really makes I'm Going Away stand out in their catalog is its top quality song caliber, such as "Lost At Sea" where Eleanor has written about real emotions and their effect versus some of the atypical topics the group has covered in the past. It not only ranks up high as one of their best songs, but features a bouncy piano, which gives it a timeless appeal. You may not ever be sure what you will get on a Fiery Furnaces record, but on I'm Going Away, you get one of the most straight forward and enjoyable records since their debut!

Key Tracks: "Cut The Cake", "Drive To Dallas", "Lost At Sea"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Grand Duchy
Patti Smith
The Bird And The Bee

Official Fiery Furnaces Website
The Fiery Furnaces MySpace
The Fiery Furnaces Info [Allmusic]
Thrill Jockey Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Riverdales: Invasion USA

Riverdales
Invasion USA
Asian Man Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
You may or may not know that the Riverdales rose from the ashes of influential punk band Screeching Weasel and had their first record produced by Billie Joe (Green Day) in 1995. Their sound has always been in the spirit of the Ramones and on their first long player in six years, the Riverdales start up where they left off and riff out 14 songs in 28 minutes. Invasion USA is short, sweet and better then a lot of new power pop punk groups out there. So if you are looking for a lesson, go ahead and pick this one up!

Key Track: "Squirm"

Band With Similar Fire: Ramones

Official Riverdales Website
Riverdales MySpace
Riverdales Info [Allmusic]
Asian Man Records


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Discovery: LP

Discovery
LP
XL Recordings [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Discovery is the side project of keyboardist Rostam Batmanglij (Vampire Weekend) and Wes Miles (Ra Ra Riot) with the addition of some guest vocals from Ezra Koening (Vampire Weekend) and Angel Deradoorian (Dirty Projectors). LP comes off much like a side project because it never quite feels cohesive but definitely has parts that sound great. It is a synthesizer drivin' record that has some solid melodies and moments of potential. It is also still a side project, where clearly both guys are having fun - there is nothing wrong with that and with more focus we could easily be talking about Discovery in the future with a lot more positive adoration!

Key Track: "I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend (w/ Angel Deradoorian)"

Band With Similar Fire: The Postal Service

Official Discovery Website
Discovery MySpace
Discovery Info [Allmusic]
XL Recordings


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Friday, July 24, 2009

Magnolia Electric Co.: Josephine

Magnolia Electric Co.
Josephine
Secretly Canadian Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: Heartfelt record delivers on several levels.

Album Review:
Magnolia Electric Co.'s latest record Josephine represents the ultimate tribute the band could pay to the life and spirit of fallen bassist Evan Farrell who passed away in a house fire December 2007. Josephine is the record Evan hoped for and band leader Jason Molina carefully crafted and tweaked the groups sound to achieve this fairly low key country tinged indie rock album. Josephine is one of the most straight-forward records Molina has made with simple standard arrangements and instrumentation that basically consists of piano, guitars, drums, and lapsteel. This time around, Magnolia Electric Co. rely heavily on their lyrical substance and band unity that together forms the strength of the album. It is a record that tugs at your emotions when its slower overall pace pulls you into Molina's world and lets you feel the distress the band feels. On the mourning track "Shenandoah" it is hard not to experience the pain, just like in "Little Sad Eyes" and "Heartbreak At Ten Paces" as they collectively build walls around you. Luckily the entire album is not as somber but has a brighter outlook and upbeat vibe as lead off track "O! Grace" contains a breezy sway to it, while the excellent closer "An Arrow In The Gale" releases you with its warmth and points the entire group towards a positive space, even if it lasts just over a minute. Josephine is a record that Molina needed to make, along with his bandmates, to move past losing a friend, while together creating something that will remember him forever.

Key Tracks: "O! Grace", "Shenandoah", "An Arrow In The Gale"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sun Kill Moon
Bonnie 'Prince' Billy
Son Volt

Official Magnolia Electric Co. Website

Magnolia Electric Co. MySpace
Magnolia Electric Co. Info [Allmusic]
Secretly Canadian Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Trevor Giuliani: Subcontrario (In Stereo)

Trevor Giuliani
Subcontrario (In Stereo)
Dovecote Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
I say this all the time but we need another singer/songwriter like we need another reader correcting our grammar. With that said, Trevor Giuliani definitely caught our ear as his pleasant vocals, his interesting stories, and his solid musicianship hoist Subcontrario (In Stereo) to the next level. "'Wasting Your Town" is the first single, and it encapsulates Giuliani's sound with its sprinkling of piano, fun hand claps and whimsical chorus. This likable quality continues throughout Subcontrario (In Stereo) and although Trevor's tracks wear different masks stylistically, his stand out vocals are the gel which holds his record in place. Basically if Trevor Giuliani was placed in the right media he could easily break out to a mass audience because lack of talent is not an issue - just exposure!

Key Track: "Wasting Your Town"

Band With Similar Fire: Pete Yorn

Trevor Giuliani MySpace
Dovecote Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Deastro: Moondagger

Deastro
Moondagger
Ghostly Int. [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Admittedly, I have always been a bit standoffish when it comes to what I call "laptop" bands. This described Randolph Chabot's Deastro debut of mostly home recordings called Keepers [2008], but on Moondagger he recruited a live band and recorded in a real studio. The change in sound is instant as each track now snaps when his songs hit the chorus and truly pop out of your speakers with the array of instruments. Sure the group is still electronic and uses synthesizer effects for most of the record but now with Chabot able to focus on song structure, it really enhances the experience and makes Moondagger a solid pop record - with real guitar, bass and drums!

Key Track: "Greens, Grays, And Nordics"

Bands With Similar Fire: MGMT

Deastro MySpace
Deastro Info [Allmusic]
Ghostly International

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Talbot Tagora: Lessons In The Woods Or A City

Talbot Tagora
Lessons In The Woods Or A City
Hardly Art Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Artistic innovation on Talbot Tagora debut!

Album Review:
When you listen to the new long player from Seattle's Talbot Tagora you start to imagine and shape what "alternative music" really is. Anymore that term spans from the most mainstream artists to the local guy on the street corner but Talbot Tagora play a style of noise ridden art punk that is simply created by guitar, bass, and drums. It is the abstract way the group attacks song structures, which makes them standout, as each track sort of blends into the next making Lessons In The Woods Or A City feel like a whole piece versus tracks or parts. Much of this comes from the simple effect of repeat, as Talbot Tagora has perfected piecing their music together with repetitive guitar licks, muffled male/female vocals and pounding reverb drums. This drives the Sonic Youth comparisons and keeps the listener intrigued around each corner because deep below all the circling noise there lies some decent pop hooks that will make you stay and ask for more.

Key Tracks: "Mouth Rainboy", "Hairspray", "Perception Stick"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sonic Youth
Abe Vigoda
Sholi

Talbot Tagora MySpace
Hardly Art Records


-Reviewed by Sloane Emore

Superchunk: Crossed Wires 7"

Superchunk
Crossed Wires 7"
Merge Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
We are always up for a new single from Superchunk and the Crossed Wires 7" finds the band once again showing their veteran knack for a hook. This follows the entertaining Leaves In The Gutter [EP] released earlier this year and combined with this release represents more new output from the band in almost seven years. Both the A side and B side will rock you out with a fever that feels like early 90's Chunk. This is a good thing and if you are a collector of limited vinyl releases, Crossed Wires is currently available in a limited edition of 1,000 copies on clear vinyl. So get em while they're hot!

Key Track: "Binders (Fast Vers.)"

Band With Similar Fire: Ted Leo

Superchunk: Leaves In The Gutter [EP] [Fire Note Review 5/4/09]
Superchunk: Clambakes Vol 4 Sur La Bouche - Live in Montreal 1993 [Fire Note Review 2/2/09]

Official Superchunk Website
Superchunk MySpace
Superchunk Info [Allmusic]
Merge Records

-Reviewed by Sloane Emore

The Carolinas: Songbook 1: Moonlight Or The Ghost

The Carolinas
Songbook 1: Moonlight Or The Ghost
Branch Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
The Carolinas debut, Songbook 1: Moonlight Or The Ghost is a laid back alternative country record that is not afraid to shake it up and play some straight forward rock. The album has a nice balance of memorable ballads like "Manhattan" while also being able to change pace 90 degrees with roots rockers "She's Analogue" and "Let The Sun Go Down". It is this balance and Lee Baker's lead vocals that help Songbook 1: Moonlight Or The Ghost succeed for what it is. It is not an album that is going to turn the radio on fire nor earn tons of critical praise but it is an honest record built on four guys friendships and strong songwriting, which should take The Carolinas a long way!

Key Track: "She’s Analogue"

Band With Similar Fire: Ryan Adams

Official Carolinas Website
The Carolinas MySpace
Branch Records


-Reviewed by Sloane Emore

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Portugal. The Man: The Satanic Satanist

Portugal. The Man
The Satanic Satanist
Equal Vision Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: This is one catchy ride and easily the best album to date from Portugal. The Man!

Album Review:
It is always nice to be there when a band hits its stride as Portugal. The Man have on their fourth record The Satanic Satanist. The record is a memorable and catchy piece of work that grooves and flows while it has perfect timing, solid transitions and interesting subject matter. From the first hooky lead-off track "People Say", Portugal make a strong comment on the human cost of war with the lyrics “What a lovely day yeah we won the war, May have lost a million men but we got a million more”. This song leaves the politics there as much of the album focuses on lead singer John Gourley's Alaskan upbringing about loneliness, the sun and the Iditarod. What makes The Satanic Satanist succeed is that it blends different styles to give Portugal. The Man their own niche. "Lovers In Love" uses old style Motown grooves, while other tracks like the smooth "The Sun" take on a very sprawling Verve vibe and yet on "Do You" the band breaks out big and driving guitar and bass lines. The album also finds the group working more with loops and samples than they have since their 2006 debut, which completely fills in any gaps. The parting line on this record is that Portugal. The Man have released their best record to date and after taking it for one spin The Satanic Satanist will be sure to hook you too with every sing-a-long melody in its timely 35 minutes and arty packaging by Austin Sellers (see here)!

Key Tracks: "Work All Day", "The Sun", "Do You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Stone Roses
Ween
My Morning Jacket

Official Portugal. The Man Website
Portugal. The Man MySpace
Portugal. The Man Info [Allmusic]
Equal Vision Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

UUVVWWZ: UUVVWWZ

UUVVWWZ
UUVVWWZ
Saddle Creek Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Not only do Lincoln, Nebraska's UUVVWWZ have one of the more interesting band names but also one of the more interesting sounds on the indie scene right now. Female lead Teal Gardner has the vocal strength of a Karen O, while standing independently above the angular and often moving song structures. You can rock out to the fairly short and in your face 3 minute "Shark Suit" while in turn, the group can string different textures together and form the almost 8 minute "Neolaño". The key is that regardless of length this debut never drags and Gardner's soaring vocals keep you honed into every track - beat by beat - guitar by guitar!

Key Track: "Shark Suit"

Band With Similar Fire: Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Official UUVVWWZ Website

UUVVWWZ MySpace
UUVVWWZ Info [Allmusic]
Saddle Creek Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Beastie Boys: Ill Communication [Deluxe Edition]

Beastie Boys
Ill Communication [Deluxe Edition]
Capitol Records [1994; re: 2009]
(2CD Set)





Fire Drill Review:

Where Paul's Boutique is probably the Beastie's highest critically praised album, Ill Communication ranks right up there and showcased a return to their fun spirit and some of their punk roots plus contains one of my favorite singles in "Sabotage". The album hit at the right time in 1994, MTV adored it, Spike Jonze put together one of his best videos and alternative nation was in full swing. Ill Communication was hard to pin down into one genre because it mixed old school rap, lo-fi funk, punk, jazz instrumentals, and world type rhythms giving it a wide audience and really defining what makes it a now Beastie Boy classic. The deluxe edition not only remasters the album but comes with a bonus disc of B-sides and remixes; that are well worth the price of admission although you know or have some of the tracks if you own the Root Down EP [1995].

Key Track: "The Maestro (Live)"

Band With Similar Fire: Beck

Beastie Boys: Paul's Boutique [20th Anniversary Edition] [Fire Note Review 2/12/09]

Official Beastie Boys Website

Beastie Boys MySpace
Beastie Boys Info [Allmusic]
Capitol Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Anti-Flag: The People Or The Gun

Anti-Flag
The People Or The Gun
SideOneDummy Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: Straight forward political punk rock!

Album Review:
Sometimes you are never sure what will happen to a band when they return back from some time with the major labels as Anti-Flag had several years and two albums with RCA Records but now make a return to the indies with SideOneDummy. For Anti-Flag the transition means nothing but coming back on album number seven feistier, catchier and politically charged as ever. You can almost sense from the first guitar strum that Anti-Flag were never comfortable in the majors and other than having the experience, an independent label is where they belong. The People Or The Gun is a solid charging forward punk rock album that targets some expected subjects including big corporations, government and religion. This record highlights the band's experience at all levels as it blends the hardcore punk that made them great as a new band, catchy hooks that made them appealing to the major labels and most importantly their showmanship which appeals to their legions of fans. The People Or The Gun of course does not offer any earth shattering new sounds but there is something to be said for a competently tight record - Anti-Flag offer you that record!

Key Tracks: "The Economy Is Suffering...Let It Die", "We Are The One", "When All The Lights Go Out"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Rancid
The Clash
NOFX

Official Anti-Flag Website
Anti-Flag MySpace
Anti-Flag Info [Allmusic]
SideOneDummy Records


-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Hotel Eden: A Way Back Home [EP]

Hotel Eden
A Way Back Home [EP]
Solar Set Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
A Way Back Home is the promising debut EP from Columbus, Ohio's Hotel Eden which is really one man show Kelly Warner. The EP has several different styles that are driven from Warner's DJ days as he is not afraid to play with sound like in the groovy "The Take Home" or on the piano driven tracks he has a more orchestrated Ben Folds sound with layered harmonies. "Here" is one of the most upbeat tracks on the EP and Hotel Eden take on a very Beck vibe with fuzzed out bass line and muffled spacey vocals. It is this wizardry that makes Hotel Eden intriguing and A Way Back Home a very enjoyable listen. It definitely sets the stage to look forward to the full length!

Key Track: "Tell Me Where You've Been"

Band With Similar Fire: Ben Folds

Official Hotel Eden Website

Hotel Eden MySpace



-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Warped Tour 2009 Compilation

Various Artists
Warped Tour 2009 Compilation
SideOneDummy Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
Believe it or not the Warp Tour hits its 15th birthday this year and once again provides a stellar lineup. Once again the Warp Tour Compiltion is price perfectly cheap and is two discs capturing most of the bands that will hit the stage. It really is a who's who of punk rock and you get big names like Bad Religion and NOFX, while discovering new ones like Hole like rockers TAT, Orlando's up and coming hook filled There For Tomorrow and the entertaining hip hop artist P.O.S.. If you have never been to a Warp Tour then you should go and this comp is a necessary companion. If you are into the independent rock thing but can't stand the heat then this compilation is perfect to kick out the rest of your summer and do exactly what the Warp Tour does - turn you onto new bands!

Official Warp Tour Website
SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Monday, July 20, 2009

Bad Veins: Bad Veins

Bad Veins
Bad Veins
Dangerbird Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Cincinnati duo make superb indie rock debut!

Album Review:
Bad Veins come off like a complete indie rock band quartet, but that is the grand illusion which Ben Davis (vocals, guitar, keys) and Sebastian Schulz (drums) pull off on their self-titled debut album. The duo's record is the complete package with stick in your head melodies that are all contained within tight musical grooves and are planted within different tempos. Bad Veins adds in a few musical tricks in order to help produce their bigger sound as Davis sometimes sings with a megaphone or an old telephone to achieve certain effects, such as the background crackles in first single "Gold And Warm" before it kicks into its full radio friendly hooks, Strokes like vocal delivery and still remains somewhat lo-fi. With the inclusion of synthesizers and more orchestrated uptempo tracks, Bad Veins easily slides somewhere between The Killers and Franz Ferdinand but it is on the slower songs that help set the group apart. "The Lie" and "You Kill" specifically have a certain swag and stroll to them that have perfect pace, never drag and completely pull you into the track for their memorable lyrics and melody. In just 38 minutes, Bad Veins will win you over with their catchy indie rock debut album that gets better with every spin and will certainly take you by surprise!

Key Tracks: "Gold And Warm", "Falling Tide", "The Lie"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Strokes
Swearing At Motorists
The Killers

Official Bad Veins Website
Bad Veins MySpace
Dangerbird Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Cheap Trick: The Latest

Cheap Trick
The Latest
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
The Latest is Cheap Tricks first record in three years and fifteenth album overall. It holds nothing back and clearly highlights why they are one the guitar power pop kings with its big hooks and veteran song formulas. The band does nothing here to show their age as the 2 minute "Sick Man Of Europe" is a fiery rocker much like their 70's work while ballads like "Everybody Knows" will remind you of their MTV days. They also include the Slade cover “When The Lights Are Out,” that originally was recorded in the 70's and adds to the albums overall entertainment. Cheap Trick may not burn up the album charts anymore but one listen to The Latest and you will respect where they came from, how many bands they have influenced and the joys of straight forward power pop done right!

Key Track: "Sick Man Of Europe"

Band With Similar Fire: Tinted Windows

Official Cheap Trick Website
Cheap Trick MySpace
Cheap Trick Info [Allmusic]

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Daughtry: Leave This Town

Daughtry
Leave This Town
RCA Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
American Idol rocker Daughtry has probably just released one of the most formula created and predictable records that I have listened to in 2009. Depending on where you stand this could be a good or bad thing. His sophomore album Leave This Town sounds pretty close to his smash selling debut and no doubt will yield multiple rock radio singles, VH1 play and album sales. It would have been nice to see something a bit more adventurous and different, while not losing his core but what can you do. The upside for fans is that Leave This Town is still catchy as hell in small doses, so take it is for what it is -summer rock radio that you sing along to when nobody's watching!

Key Track: "No Surprise"

Band With Similar Fire: 3 Doors Down

Official Daughtry Website
Daughtry MySpace
Daughtry Info [Allmusic]
RCA Records


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Friday, July 17, 2009

Matthew Sweet And Susanna Hoffs: Under The Covers Vol. 2

Matthew Sweet And Susanna Hoffs
Under The Covers Vol. 2
Shout! Factory Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: They're Back!

Album Review:
On Under The Covers Vol. 1 [2006], Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs covered tracks from the 60's and now on the new follow up record Vol. 2, the duo move into songs from the 70's. The first thing you will notice with this record is that the song selection is a bit more straightforward and more recognizable to the common listener with tracks like "All The Young Dudes (Mott The Hopple), "You're So Vain (Carly Simon)", "Maggie May (Rod Stewart)" and "Here Comes My Girl (Tom Petty)". These are all songs that the talented Sweet and Hoffs can sing in their sleep. With that said, the duo's interpretations are well done and approached with the utmost respect for the originals. Under The Covers Vol. 2 also contains some surprises like them tackling The Raspberries "Go All The Way" and Big Star's "Back Of A Car". The record also features some extra help from Lindsay Buckingham on Fleetwood's "Second Hand News" and Dhani Harrison on George's "Beware Of Darkness". The most interesting song choice for me, is the inclusion of the Yes classic "I've Seen All Good People" complete with the help of Steve Howe in all of its seven minute plus glory. Like every cover record, some songs will appeal to individual taste but overall Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs pull off a fun listen and for many a great stroll down the 70's memory lane!

Key Tracks: "Maggie May", "Bell Bottom Blues", "Second Hand News"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Lemonheads
Me First And The Gimme Gimmes
Grant-Lee Phillips

Matthew Sweet: Sunshine Lies [Fire Note Review 8/21/08]

Matthew Sweet And Susanna Hoffs: Under The Covers Vol. 1 [Fire Note Review 6/2/06]

Matthew Sweet & Susanna Hoffs MySpace
Shout! Factory Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Minus 5: Killingsworth

The Minus 5
Killingsworth
Yep Roc Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Besides the staple Peter Buck (R.E.M.) being at his constant side, Scott McCaughey has had a laundry list of star guest musicians join him on each record with his Minus 5 vehicle. On the groups eighth record Killingsworth, they are joined by most of The Decemberists including Colin Meloy singing on "Scott Walker's Fault". What makes Killingsworth stand out from the solid Minus 5 catalog is its laid back and slower country rock sound that is completely focused. It also does not hurt that McCaughey is a superb songwriter and this record highlights how he can always have a revolving door of musicians but yet put out a quality record!

Key Track: "The Long Hall"

Band With Similar Fire: Wilco

Official Minus 5 Website
The Minus 5 MySpace
The Minus 5 Info [Allmusic]
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Young Fresh Fellows: I Think This Is

The Young Fresh Fellows
I Think This Is
Yep Roc Records [2009]








Fire Drills Review:
The upbeat rock sound found on the new Young Fresh Fellows, I Think This Is can be most likely be linked to two events. The first is that Scott McCaughey's other project The Minus 5 have just simultaneously released a very carefully slower paced record and the second being that Robyn Hitchcock produced this record. On I Think This Is, The Young Fresh Fellows seem more focused then several of their more recent releases. With that said, it is their first full album since 2001, and 25 years since the release of their debut so you are talking at least a decade. The record is full of power pop rockers that sound energized and due to a more refined production I Think This Is comes across catchier and perfectly polished.

Key Track: "Betty Let The Good Times Crawl"

Band With Similar Fire: The Fall-Outs

The Young Fresh Fellows MySpace
The Young Fresh Fellows Info [Allmusic]
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Sunset Rubdown: Dragonslayer

Sunset Rubdown
Dragonslayer
Jagjaguwar Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Complex, catchy and simply stellar listening!

Album Review:
Spencer Krug is one busy indie guy. With being the driving force behind three majar indie bands (Wolf Parade, Swan Lake, Sunset Rubdown) I am not sure how he maintains his focus and releases album after album that all rise to the test. On Sunset Rubdown's third record Dragonslayer, Krug has set the bar high again and it should be a constant challenge to reproduce the results. Sunset Rubdown has typically represented the more experimental side to his personality but Dragonslayer completely bridges the gaps and connects the dots between being eclectic and writing catchy indie tunes. Krug perfects his knack for including background noises but they never distract from the song and Camilla Wynne Ingr supplies stand out female backing vocals that will leave you wanting her to take a larger role. What makes Dragonslayer succeed is the backing melodies and how Krug is capable of building momentum within each track. Most of the eight tracks surpass the five minute mark so pace plays an important role in Sunset Rubdown's song structures as time allows Krug to go in multiple directions, while pulling all the ideas back together in the end. Dragonslayer is easily the band's most accessible and catchy record from beginning to end. It is its dense complexity that makes Sunset Rubdown's release great - it is its catchiness that makes it a keeper!

Key Tracks: "Silver Moons", "Paper Lace", "Idiot Heart"

Bands With Similar Fire:
David Bowie
Built To Spill
Arcade Fire

Sunset Rubdown: Shut Up I Am Dreaming [Fire Note Review 6/15/06]


Official Sunset Rubdown Website
Sunset Rubdown MySpace
Sunset Rubdown Info [Allmusic]
Jagjaguwar Records


-Reviewed by Roxy Cowell

Spoon: Got Nuffin [Single]

Spoon
Got Nuffin [Single]
Merge Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Are you ready for some new Spoon? Damn straight you are! Got Nuffin is a new single recently released from the band that includes two new b-sides. Got Nuffin starts of with hard drum beats that continue through the entire song before Britt Daniels kicks in his familiar lyric wordplay and makes for an entertaining single. The band sounds fresh and ready to go. Even on the instrumental b-side "Tweakers" - Spoon sounds eager to get out and that's a good thing!

Key Track: "Stroke Their Brains"

Band With Similar Fire: Ted Leo

Spoon: Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga [Fire Note Review 7/10/07]

Official Spoon Website
Spoon MySpace
Spoon Info [Allmusic]
Merge Records


-Reviewed by Roxy Cowell

Jets Overhead: No Nations

Jets Overhead
No Nations
Vapor Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Jets Overhead have sweeping male and female vocals that have a blanket effect on the listener as they surround and wrap you with the Canadian groups multi-layers. No Nations is the groups sophomore record and it keeps a nice slow to mid tempo pace, which lets each song evolve and breathe as they glide along. No Nations is not going to change the world nor does it sound completely new but overall it is good listen and I could easily see these guys end up on a multitude of TV shows because the tracks have the ability to add to a story!

Key Track: "Weathervanes (In The Way)"

Band With Similar Fire: Ride

Official Jets Overhead Website

Jets Overhead MySpace
Jets Overhead Info [Allmusic]
Vapor Records


-Reviewed by Roxy Cowell

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Leeroy Stagger: Everything Is Real

Leeroy Stagger
Everything Is Real
Boompa Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Brand new band, Brand new record and a Brand new outlook on life = Stagger connects the dots to make it all work!

Album Review:
Canadian singer/songwriter Leeroy Stagger falls into that Springsteen/Petty/Adams type of roots rocker that has just a bit of twang, just a bit of a drawl and just enough rock. On his fourth record, Everything Is Real, Stagger set out to record an album that sounded like the ones he grew up listening to from the 70's. The record is a mix of songs that rock out like on the self-titled track, songs that sway, which includes the catchy single "Sleep Alone" and outright "lighters up" ballads in "Snowing In Nashville". Everything Is Real represents many "news" for Stagger as he put together a new versatile band and enjoys a new sobriety which leads to his writing and performing with complete clarity and focus. He also recruited a bunch of talented musicians to assist on the record which include Bobby Furgo (Leonard Cohen Band), Tim Easton (New West Records), Evan Phillips (The Whipsaws), Steve Bays (Hot Hot Heat), Neal Casal (Ryan Adams and the Cardinals), as well as Scottish songster Roddy Hart. You might also recognize Stagger's name from the folk trio Easton, Stagger, Phillips whom had an excellent record released last year. Four of that records tracks are found on Everything Is Real reworked in a more electric and upbeat fashion. It highlights the strength of Stagger's writing because the songs take on different shapes with the stylistic changes but drive home the same message. Leeroy Stagger may not be a name that has crossed the border South yet but Everything Is Real should give him a legitimate and well deserved shot at a larger audience because it is easily one of his best to date!

Key Tracks: "Sleep Alone", "Everything Is Real", "Snowing In Nashville"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ryan Adams
Wilco
Josh Rouse

Easton Stagger Phillips: One For The Ditch [Fire Note Review 1/13/09]

Official Leeroy Stagger Website
Leeroy Stagger MySpace
Boompa Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Quixote: Quixote

Quixote
Quixote
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Massachusetts band Quixote just recently released their self-titled debut record that draws from a little bit of everything as you can find elements of folk, hip-hop, classical, 60's pop, and electronica, in the mix - making Quixote a very intriguing record. The lo-fi vibe of the tracks may discourage you at first from giving Quixote a legitimate listen but the band cultivates an energy as each song builds up its momentum. Most of this is executed by vocalist/guitarist Joe Stulpin as he can go from a spoken word lyric into a soaring chorus line with a snap, much like The Walkmen or Strokes pulled off before them. Quixote offer up a bit different overall approach to their music as the injection of accordion, violin and airy samples give their debut a whole new aura that is an entertaining listen!

Key Track: "Wide Awake Half Alive

Band With Similar Fire: Arcade Fire

Official Quixote Website
Quixote MySpace

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Most Serene Republic: ...And The Ever Expanding Universe

The Most Serene Republic
...And The Ever Expanding Universe
Arts & Crafts Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
...And The Ever Expanding Universe finally has the talented seven member group known as The Most Serene Republic coming into their own and releasing their best record to date. It's success starts with being produced by Dave Newfeld (Broken Social Scene, Super Furry Animals, Los Campesinos!) and letting the band focus on what is important - song structures, lyrics and playing on a united front. All of these tasks are met on ...And The Ever Expanding Universe as Emma Ditchburn's vocals drive the upbeat side of things countered by the rest of the guys's backing vocals and array of instrumentation that flourishes and lifts this record up!

Key Track: "Don't Hold Back, Feel A Little Longer"

Band With Similar Fire: The Flaming Lips

Official Most Serene Republic Website
The Most Serene Republic MySpace
The Most Serene Republic Info [Allmusic]
Arts & Crafts Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Stellastarr*: Civilized

Stellastarr*
Civilized
Bloated Wife Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: More of the same on first album in 4 years!

Album Review:
Remembering back, Stellastarr* were part of the hot NYC modern rock scene in 2003 with the release of their self-titled record. The year is now 2009 and the band is only on album number three and many bands whom followed their original sound have already surpassed the band critically and financially. If you are a looking for a familiar sound then Civilized will not throw you too many surprises. You still get baritone front man Shawn Christensen cranking out lyrical wordplay while the bands new wave tendencies supply plenty of layered background vocal support and enough bouncy beats to keep you going. Other then speeding up some of their playing like on the frenzied opener "Robot" to the bounciness contained in "Prom Zombie", Stellastarr* remain unphased by the passing of time and long time fans will want to immediately embrace album number three. Civilized does take several listens to sink in and compared to their debut when this NYC sound seemed more new and innovative, Stellastarr* take it in stride and seem complacent where they stand in the current rock environment.

Key Tracks: "Robot", "Numbers", "Move On"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Bloc Party
The Airbourne Toxic Event
Interpol

Official Stellastarr* Website
Stellastarr* MySpace
Stellastarr* Info [Allmusic]


-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Big D And The Kids Table: Fluent In Stroll

Big D And The Table Kids Table
Fluent In Stroll
SideOneDummy Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
There is a breezy looseness to Big D And The Kids Table new record Fluent In Stroll as lead vocalist Dave McWane sways and swaggers in and out of songs. The band rides the ska bench throughout the record with backing horns and a quick timing pace. The group also supplies a pair of female backup vocals that almost cheer each time they sing, which adds to the celebratory vibes to the record. Most tracks with the ska infusion also have a foot tapping capability, which will immediately appeal to the listener and help provide a solid 50 minutes of music that just may turn you back onto ska. That wouldn't be that bad!

Key Track: "Doped Up Dollies On A One Way Ticket To Blood"

Band With Similar Fire: The Mighty Mighty Bosstones

Official Big D Website
Big D MySpace
Big D Info [Allmusic]
SideOneDummy Records


-Reivewed by Christopher Anthony

Monday, July 13, 2009

The Dead Weather: Horehound

The Dead Weather
Horehound
Third Man/WB Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Kick back and let the grind begin!

Album Review:
The Dead Weather is the new group from Jack White (White Stripes) that is fronted by Alison Mosshart (The Kills), has Jack Lawrence (The Raconteurs) on bass, and Dean Fertita (Queens Of The Stone Age) rounding out the foursome on guitar. You might wonder about drumming but that is covered by White, which he originally played in his first band, and of course he supplies dueling vocals with Mosshart. The Dead Weather are not like any other project White works with because Horehound comes off much darker, grittier, fuzzier, jammier, bluesier and completely in your face compared to his catalog. Alison Mosshart is the real driver of this vehicle because her vocals create the mood as she moans, snarls, groans and is a solid match for White's pitched and commanding vocals. Sometimes it feels almost like they are in a fist fight or tug-of-war as each song shifts and sways back n forth. This is the chemistry that makes The Dead Weather worth checking out. Horehound is not nearly as "hit" accessible or radio friendly like The White Stripes or The Raconteurs, but it is just as solid considering it was initially imagined as a one-off 7" single recording. Regardless if we see another Dead Weather record (my guess is we will), the man behind the skins just keeps building his resume along with the launch of the Third Man Records store and truly when looked back upon, Jack White will be one of those iconic artist - if he isn't already there. Out of White's main projects, The Dead Weather is the one you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley - and that is the way we like it!

Key Tracks: "Treat Me Like Your Mother", "Hang You From The Heavens", "Bone House"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Pussy Galore
PJ Harvey
Royal Trux

The Dead Weather: Treat Me Like Your Mother [Single] [Fire Note Review 6/9/09]


Official Dead Weather Website
The Dead Weather MySpace
The Dead Weather Info [Allmusic]
Third Man Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

The Donnas: Greatest Hits Vol. 16

The Donnas
Greatest Hits Vol. 16
Purple Feather Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
This 16 track collection from The Donnas is not a standard "hits" record as listed but rather a collection of two new songs, two never-before-heard b-sides from their self-released 2007 album Bitchin’ [2007], live and re-recorded versions of songs they originally recorded for Atlantic Records and going way back for two unreleased tracks from the band’s debut album. For fans this will be a fun record because if you remember - The Donnas started out on the punk label Lookout! and sounded much more like the female Ramones then Mötley Crüe. As they aged, their hard rock roots came to the surface, which may have lost some of their earlier fans, but as this record shows they have never lost their edge. Everything on Greatest Hits Vol. 16 sounds completely tight and rocks out. The Donnas may never re-capture their initial appeal but by revisiting their roots maybe it will push them back towards the Ramones for their next record of new tunes - no offense Mötley!

Key Track: "Get Off"

Band With Similar Fire: Joan Jett

Official Donnas Website
The Donnas MySpace
The Donnas Info [Allmusic]


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Cobra Skulls: American Rubicon

Cobra Skulls
American Rubicon
Red Scare Ind. [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Out in Reno there dwells a somewhat unknown rockabilly punk rock band called the Cobra Skulls. Their sophomore record called American Rubicon drops this week and it is spirited 38 minutes of straightforward tunes that have a fast pace, catchy hooks and a vocalist in Devin Peralta, who can switch from English to Spanish mid-song. Currently many bands in this genre seem to fall short of putting out anything above average because there are so many things that you can do with this style of music. The Cobra Skulls figured out that you don't have to create anything new but simply write quality songs, play your fingers off till they bleed and include some memorable hooks, which propels American Rubicon to the front of the line!

Key Track: "Bad Apples"

Band With Similar Fire: The Living End

Official Cobra Skulls Website
Cobra Skulls MySpace
Cobra Skulls Info [Allmusic]
Red Scare Industries


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Friday, July 10, 2009

Reverie Sound Revue: Reverie Sound Revue

Reverie Sound Revue
Reverie Sound Revue
Boompa Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Pleasant sounds from the North!

Album Review:
It only took seven years but Canada's Reverie Sound Revue have finally released their new self-titled record, which is full of pleasantly structured indie pop songs that will instantly get you humming along. After creating tons of buzz with their solid EP release back in 2003, Reverie Sound Revue never made their long player due to the band having other callings and separating in 2004, leaving everyone to wonder what could have been. Apparently, the band wondered also because before long they were back in communication and their self-titled record has been in the works for several years. You may recognize lead singer Lisa Lobsinger from Broken Social Scene fame as Reverie Sound Revue puts her stylistic looks and siren sound front and center. It is her warm and seductive vocals that drive this breezy and lighthearted crafted debut record to the next level. On tracks like the upbeat foot tapper "You Don't Exist If I Don't See You", Reverie Sound Revue display a perfect balance of melody and lyric that bounces along like the early Stereolab records. This is a sound that takes just the right balance and perfect vocal. Lobsinger supplies that vocal and the band adds in complex multi-layers of sound and interweaving counter melodies that make this a promising self-titled debut that should grab some attention because it is a completely solid and enjoyable effort.

Key Tracks: "An Anniversary Away", "You Don't Exist If I Don't See You", "We Are The Opposite Of Thieves"

Bands With Similar Fire:

The Sundays

Official Reverie Sound Revue Website
Reverie Sound Revue MySpace
Boompa Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Trainwreck Riders: The Perch

Trainwreck Riders
The Perch
Alive Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
San Fran's Trainwreck Riders put on several different hats on their sophomore record The Perch. The record is full of a hybrid folk, country, bluesy rock and cow-punk that is much like the styles of the Meat Puppets, Uncle Tupelo, or the Mekons. It is this careful but yet ever changing delivery that makes The Perch seem fresh around every corner and the Trainwreck Riders supply enough memorable melodies to make each spin rewarding!

Key Track: "Weight Of The Day"

Band With Similar Fire: Meat Puppets

Trainwreck Riders MySpace
Trainwreck Riders Info [Allmusic]
Alive Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Tiny Vipers: Life On Earth

Tiny Vipers
Life On Earth
Sub Pop Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
There is something special about the wide open feeling you get when listening to the sophomore record from Seattle singer/songwriter Jesy Fortino aka Tiny Vipers. It is an album that keeps a slow pace but relies on Fortino's siren like vocals to hold the listener to every lyric and notice every injected instrument. The songs on Life On Earth are not short, in fact the title track is over ten minutes, while six of the eleven tracks are aroudn six minutes or more. This can lead to isolated moments during the record but that is its hidden strength - it is a space only Tiny Vipers can take you and it is this space where Fortino is at her best!

Key Track: "Dreamer"

Band With Similar Fire: Julie Doiron

Tiny Vipers MySpace
Tiny Vipers Info [Allmusic]
Sub Pop Records


-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Wednesday, July 08, 2009

We Were Promised Jetpacks: These Four Walls

We Were Promised Jetpacks
These Four Walls
FatCat Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Welcome this taste of Scotland to your player!

Album Review:
Besides having one of the cooler band names this year, Scotland-based We Were Promised Jetpacks unleash a solid batch of guitar rock here on their debut These Four Walls. The group is made up of high school friends, which won their school's battle of the bands competition in 2003. Fast-forward to present day - WWPJ have perfected their sound and come off musically tight and seem far more advanced then just releasing their debut record. This conclusion comes from These Four Walls being fairly straightforward with traditional song structures, out front guitars, and catchy melodies, while WWPJ's songs rely on vocalist/guitarist Adam Thompson's commanding lead chops and his distinct accent. The band only really falters when they try to get somewhat experimental and the record lags a bit during several of these more instrumental interludes. These moments are far and few between leaving These Four Walls in tact and We Were Promised Jetpacks a bright future as the band continues touring and only gets stronger as a group.

Key Tracks: "It's Thunder And It's Lightening", "Ships With Holes Will Sink", "Quiet Little Voices"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Frightened Rabbit
Idlewild
The Futureheads

We Were Promised Jetpacks MySpace
We Were Promised Jetpacks Info [Allmusic]
FatCat Records


-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Jenny Owen Youngs: Transmitter Failure

Jenny Owen Youngs
Transmitter Failure
Nettwerk Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Jenny Owen Youngs is a talented singer/songwriter from Brooklyn that has expanded her sound on her sophomore outing Transmitter Failure. She has a slick pop/rock style to her vocals that bring comparisons to Liz Phair, Leona Naess and Cat Power. Not bad company to be in and Jenny holds her own as first single "Led To The Sea" has a big refrain and foot tapping beat that instantly grabs your attention. The rest of the record ebbs and flows with the same pulse and with the right break Jenny Owen Youngs could be everywhere becasue she sure has the skills!

Key Track: "Led To The Sea"

Band With Similar Fire: Jen Trynin

Official Jenny Owen Youngs Website
Jenny Owen Youngs MySpace
Jenny Owen Youngs Info [Allmusic]
Nettwerk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Jayhawks: Music from the North Country -The Jayhawks Anthology [Deluxe Edition]

The Jayhawks
Music from the North Country: The Jayhawks Anthology [Deluxe Edition]
American Recordings [2009]
(2 CD/1 DVD Set)





Fire Drill Review:

The Jayhawks were one of the bands that came to the forefront in the 90's alternative country movement and this new compilation Music From The North Country: The Jayhawks Anthology will show you why. Even with some lineup changes over the years the bands records were consistently good and it is showcased here in chronological order. There is a single disc version but the the deluxe version gives you not only the hits but a second disc compilation of Jayhawks rarities plus a DVD of video material. If you never have heard of Jayhawks then this a perfect starting point as it is full of favorites, while fans will enjoy the 20 rarity tracks included on disc 2 that clocks in at 75 minutes.

Key Track: "Waiting For The Sun"

Band With Similar Fire: Uncle Tupelo

Official Jayhawks Fan Page
The Jayhawks MySpace
The Jayhawks Info [Allmusic]
American Recordings


-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Future Of The Left: Travels With Myself And Another

Future Of The Left
Travels With Myself And Another
4AD Records [2009]







Fire Note Says: A band coming into its own!

Album Review:
I am sure that I am not alone when I say that noise rockers Mclusky ended way too early. Of course I was pleased when Future Of The Left rose from their ashes and thought their debut Curses [2007] was a perfect transition record. Now on the groups sophomore effort Travels With Myself And Another, Future Of The Left come at you fully loaded and hold nothing back in their sonic attack. The group has matured as a band but more importantly Travels With Myself And Another sounds more focused and driven versus the more experimental side found on Curses. Some of their early work ventured onto different branches by including keyboards that now take a back seat here to the fiery guitar work. It is almost like FOTL tried to completely separate themselves from Mclusky tags but now have accepted that those undertones have been carried forward. The differences are there, but Future On The Left now creates catchier tunes and doesn't worry about anything else but rocking your ass off! Mclusky who?

Key Tracks: "Drink Nike", ""Throwing Bricks At Trains", "You Need Satan More Than He Needs You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Obits
Mission Of Burma
Les Savy Fav

Official Future Of The Left Website
Future Of The Left MySpace
Future Of The Left Info [Allmusic]
4AD Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Annabel: Each And Everyone

Annabel
Each And Everyone
Count Your Lucky Stars Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:

Kent, Ohio band Annabel are keeping the spirit of college rock alive and well on their debut long player Each And Everyone. The trio cranks out indie pop gems left and right that are completely catchy and memorable. It is their straightforward simplicity that makes you come back to Each And Everyone because there are plenty of layered background vocals, ooh's, ahh's and steady drum beats. These pieces all come together while keeping the instrumentation slightly muffled and unpolished that leads to satisfying results and their sums equaling a solid debut.

Key Track: "People And Places"

Band With Similar Fire: The Wrens

Official Annabel Website
Annabel MySpace
Count Your Lucky Stars Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Amazing Baby: Rewild

Amazing Baby
Rewild
Shangri-La Music [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Amazing Baby hail from the music hub of Brooklyn and created tons of buzz at this years SXSW. Their debut Rewild is a sonic blast of large spanning songs that give you a free floating feeling as they build swirling song structures around you. Amazing Baby combine elements from multiple genres that range from glam to power pop all stirred with a bit of the psychedelic. It is this atmospheric vibe that makes Amazing Baby unique and singer-keyboardist Will Roan has a slick swagger to his voice that gets better and cooler after every spin. Rewild is an album that may not immediately grab you but definitely has components that sneak up and stay in your head ultimately backing up the early hype and making this an enjoyable debut!

Key Track: "Headdress"

Band With Similar Fire: Super Furry Animals

Official Amazing Baby Website
Amazing Baby MySpace
Amazing Baby Info [Allmusic]
Shangri-La Music


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Monday, July 06, 2009

Cass McCombs: Catacombs

Cass McCombs
Catacombs
Domino Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Welcome to McCombs's hush-hush world!

Album Review:
Catacombs is the fourth record from Baltimore singer/songwriter Cass McCombs and second for Domino Records. The album has been out in the UK since June 1 but sees a US release tomorrow. Catacombs showcases the simplicity of McCombs lyrical sophistication and his knack for crafting soft melodies and memorable hooks. It is a record that scales way back and lets each songs intensity burn and flicker in and out much like you are sitting in a room that is half lit. No song on Catacombs knocks you out but every track pulls at your senses, which forces you to remain attentive and responsive as McCombs tugs at your psyche. Probably what holds Catacombs back from being an instant classic is that on more than one track Cass gets carried away with the story and forgets to supplement with any staying hook or change in pace. This does not completely distract, but when the album clocks in just under an hour, it might be best to hear it over several sittings. Although the pace may lose some along the way, Cass McCombs easily displays through his songs why he has received a mountain of critical acclaim over the years and Catacombs is definitely strong enough to carry that torch as its hush and uncomplicated approach will gain an entire new batch of followers!

Key Tracks: "Dreams-Come-True-Girl (Feat. Karen Black)", "You Saved My Life", "Harmonia"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Iron & Wine
Alasdair Roberts
Sufjan Stevens

Official Cass McCombs Website
Cass McCombs MySpace
Cass McCombs Info [Allmusic]
Domino Records


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Rock Plaza Central: ...At The Moment Of Our Most Needing

Rock Plaza Central
...At The Moment Of Our Most Needing
Paper Bag Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
It always seems that we fuss time and time again about the next UK band trying to hit it big here, when the focus on great new music should be turned North. Rock Plaza Central is another Canadian band that has released consistent and stellar material including here on their sophomore effort ...At The Moment Of Our Most Needing. Lead singer Chris Eaton once again supplies plenty of lyrical intrigue, while the bands neo-folk support surrounds his somewhat nasally vocal with a much bigger and broader sound compared to their excellent debut Are We Not Horses [2007]. The record does tell a story like their debut, but each song stands strong on its own. What makes ...At The Moment Of Our Most Needing succeed is that with each listen there are a multitude of new discoveries every time, giving the record a solid shelf life long after you initially check it out. Rock Plaza Central is a band on the move and should make some indie noise with this release because as each horn plays, as each back-up vocal chimes in and as each banjo is strummed the listener gets rewarded line after line!

Key Track: "(Don't You Believe The Words Of) Handsome Men"

Band With Similar Fire: Calexico

Official Rock Plaza Central Website
Rock Plaza Central MySpace
Rock Plaza Central Info [Allmusic]
Paper Bag Records


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Christina Courtin: Christina Courtin

Christina Courtin
Christina Courtin
Nonesuch Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
It seems that lately we have been inundated with these sort of jazzy, delicate female singer/songwriter types such as New York's Christina Courtin. Good thing for her - she stands strong compared to some of the more notable names in this genre. You can pin the albums success on several things such as Courtin being a graduate from Juilliard, her sometimes quirky but cool vocal delivery style and her simple solid piano and arrangement skills. At the end of the day the world probably does not need another person in this genre but Courtin's energy combined with her technical skill should only lead to greater success in the future and has produced a debut record, which should help propel her there!

Key Track: "February"

Band With Similar Fire: Regina Spektor

Official Christina Courtin Website
Christina Courtin MySpace
Christina Courtin Info [Allmusic]
Nonesuch Records


-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Friday, July 03, 2009

Happy July 4th!


Happy 4th of July everyone. We took today off for the holiday so be sure to stop back Monday for some new reviews!

Thursday, July 02, 2009

Son Volt: American Central Dust

Son Volt
American Central Dust
Rounder Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Let this one keep playing and you will get it!

Album Review:
On purpose or not Son Volt drops their sixth record American Central Dust next Tuesday and exactly one week after Wilco's latest release. Sure - it has been 15 years since the splitting of Uncle Tupelo but the comparisons between the success of Jeff Tweedy and Jay Farrar will forever follow them. With that said, both guys have done alright and longtime fans support both camps so for them American Central Dust will completely please. It is an album that drops any past side steps Farrar may have tried over the last several records to change things up and returns to the supporting and faithful pedal steel, fiddle, piano and pedal steel that we all know is staple Son Volt. He sings about corruptness, the environment, love, and blue collar work, while relying on his trusting drawling voice to bring each song home. This formula works and although American Central Dust will not pull the mainstream numbers like that other band - it should do very well with the legion of Americana aficionados. I do think that Son Volt play this record somewhat safe and it really could use one or two songs that rock it up a bit more but overall American Central Dust is a record that benefits from repeat listens because no matter how you rate it - Farrar's voice enhances the strong songwriting, which leads to a solid 43 minutes of music you won't put away!

Key Tracks: "Down To The Wire", "Jukebox Of Steel", "Dynamite"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Drive-By Truckers
Steve Earle
The Jayhawks

Son Volt: The Search [Fire Note Review 3/23/07]

Official Son Volt Website
Son Volt MySpace
Son Volt Info [Allmusic]
Rounder Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Bel Air: Into The Sea 7"

Bel Air
Into The Sea 7"
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:

Under the radar Brooklyn band Bel Air have returned with a new 7" record for their roots rockin' new track "Into The Sea". The band has expanded from a three piece into five members since we reviewed their debut record Pole To Pole [2008] last year. You can immediately here this impact as the two songs presented here are bigger sounding and more straightforward. Bel Air now have a solid debut under their belt and with their fuller band sound direction we expect a sophomore record that will propel them to a wider indie audience. You can purchase the 7" at their website, which includes a download code for the digital tracks!

Key Track: "Into The Sea"

Band With Similar Fire: Wilco

Bel Air: Pole To Pole [Fire Note Review 8/29/08]

Official Bel Air Website
Bel Air MySpace

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Kasabian: West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum

Kasabian
West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum
RCA Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
Kasabian have always been a band from the UK that I thought might break out since their catchy 2004 debut but with each successive album they seem to fall a bit short and take a step back. The mouthful titled third record West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum is full of their sort of retro alternative dance rock thing but at 50 minutes the record runs out of tricks. Kasabian still have enough vigor to produce kick ass tracks like "Fast Fuse" that blends all of their sounds to perfection and comes at you 100mph but then they lose you in their more ambient moments. For its better and worse moments, West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum is what it is and is just ok - translation - this is not the album which will gain them across seas success.

Key Track: "Fast Fuse"

Band With Similar Fire: The Coral

Official Kasabian Website
Kasabian MySpace
Kasabian Info [Allmusic]
RCA Records


-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Wilco: Wilco (The Album)

Wilco
Wilco (The Album)
Nonesuch Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: This is the Wilco you know!

Album Review:
With each Wilco album it has always seemed that the group has pushed hard to balance their creative side with their brand of country tinged rock. It may surprise you then that Wilco (The Album) is probably one of the most straight forward and experimental free records Jeff Tweedy and the boys have released in their 15 year span. This is not a knock on the current state of Wilco, but a statement that they have officially settled in. Basically nothing on Wilco (The Album) will surprise you but all of it will entertain you. When spinning this record, Wilco is the band that you feel like you have known forever and the songs all feel as comfortable as your favorite pair of jeans. What makes Wilco (The Album) succeed is that it encompasses all of the bands previous work into its eleven songs. "Bull Black Nova" contains a sort of weird and spaced out vibe that covers their experimental side, while "Wilco (The Song)" is a fun opener that plays to the bands humor and "You Never Know" represents old likable roots rock melodic Wilco. One of the newer pieces found here will be Tweedy's duet with Feist on "You Am I", which fits in with the relaxed energy on Wilco (The Album) and adds to its solid state. As the album concludes with the piano driven ballad "Everlasting Everything" you realize that this is the Wilco you like and that they have reached the point where you expect and want a little bit of everything the group has to offer - Wilco (The Album) is that record!

Key Tracks: "Wilco (The Song)", "You Am I", "You Never Know"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Flying Burrito Brothers
Weinland
The Band

Wilco & Fleet Foxes: I Shall Be Released [Single] [Fire Note Review 10/21/08]
Wilco: Sky Blue Sky [Fire Note Review 5/17/07]

Official Wilco Website
Wilco MySpace
Wilco Info [Allmusic]
Nonesuch Records


-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Love Is All: Last Choice [EP]

Love Is All
Last Choice [EP]
Whats Your Rupture? Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
It would be easy to toss the Last Choice [EP] to the side because it technically is a redo of "Last Choice" from Love Is All's excellent record last year called A Hundred Things Keep Me Up At Night [2008] and 5 b sides. That of course would be a mistake because every track found here could easily have found its way onto the record last year plus offers up an even more concise song delivery. The translation here is that for fans this is an superb bonus and honestly if you have not checked out Love Is All yet - you could start here and work your way back!

Key Track:
"From Your Corner"

Bands With Similar Fire: Vivian Girls

Love Is All: A Hundred Things Keep Me Up At Night [Fire Note Review 11/20/08]


Official Love Is All Website
Love Is All MySpace
Love Is All Info [Allmusic]
Whats Your Rupture? Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Paper Chase: Someday This Could All Be Yours Vol. 1

The Paper Chase
Someday This Could All Be Yours Vol. 1
Kill Rock Stars [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
Are you up for a good concept album? Not sure? How about a concept album that covers ten natural disasters? Well that is exactly what you are going to get from Dallas, Texas's Paper Chase and their return to the scene with Someday This Could All Be Yours Vol. 1 after being gone three years. It is an upbeat and propulsive record that does not hold back as each song has a special intensity with leader John Congleton's slightly off key vocals and the multitude of instruments used to bring each of these songs into a frenzy. A truly interesting ride and concept, complete with weather warning narrative voices that make you want to take shelter - with your headphones!

Key Track: "What Should We Do With Your Body (The Lightning)"

Band With Similar Fire: Cursive

Official Paper Chase Website
The Paper Chase MySpace
The Paper Chase Info [Allmusic]
Kill Rock Stars

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta