Heavy Trash: Midnight Soul Serenade

Heavy Trash
Midnight Soul Serenade
Fat Possum Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Jon Spencer and Matt Verta-Ray release number 3!

Album Review:
Whenever you check out a side project you expect to get something different and unique from the artist but still want the new offering to retain the persons core. That is exactly what you get with Heavy Trash, as it is the collaboration between Jon Spencer and Matt Verta-Ray. Calling it a side project anymore might be a stretch, considering Midnight Soul Serenade is the groups third record and it continues right where the last record left off. The album is laid back but full of fun riffage and of course has that Jon Spencer swagger. Midnight Soul Serenade feels like the most confident record the duo has put out and does not try too hard to be good. This comes from Verta-Ray's ability to keep Spencer's larger than life personality contained just enough to let his soul rock n roll come through but never allows it to go over the top. This sets up an entertaining classic almost 50's rock sound out of Heavy Trash, while having the modern spunk to keep the set list fresh. Heavy Trash don't bring anything new to the music table but their experience makes Midnight Soul Serenade well worth seeking out - especially if you are a Jon Spencer fan!

Key Tracks: "(Sometimes You Got To Be) Gentle", "Bumble Bee", "Gee, I Really Love You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Black Keys
King Kahn
Elvis

Official Heavy Trash Website
Heavy Trash MySpace
Heavy Trash Info [Allmusic]
Fat Possum Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

R.E.M.: Live At The Olympia

R.E.M.
Live At The Olympia
Warner Bros. Records [2009]









Fire Drill Review:
After taking a listen to Live At The Olympia you may completely forget about the bands first live record R.E.M. Live [2007] because this two disc set truly captures the essence of the group in concert. Compared to the more produced 2007 live album, Live At The Olympia was recorded over a five-night stay at Dublin's Olympia in the summer of 2007 and presents a much more concert live vibe. The set list does cover many of the groups classics and more recent material but also presents versions of songs that later found themselves on Accelerate [2008]. The song selection on Live At The Olympia is really what makes it a winner. Many of the obvious choices are not here and have been replaced with solid songs but earlier tracks that R.E.M. hadn't preformed live in years. This is only half of the fun here because the band absolutely sounds vibrant and excited throughout the double albums two and half hour running time. This might sound somewhat cumbersome or merely a label commitment but that is where Live At The Olympia shines again. If you are into R.E.M. the band, then this is a pleasure to listen to regardless of which era the song comes from and the album does a superb job of capturing their blended folk rock vibe live, that does not necessarily come through on newer albums. It is this cohesion that brings their span of work together and has no divide of early vs current. For R.E.M. fans this is the live album to pick up and for the casual listener Live At The Olympia represents why the band is so highly regarded!

Key Track: "Harborcoat"

R.E.M.: Reckoning [Deluxe Edition] [Fire Note Review 6/26/09]
R.E.M.: Murmur [Deluxe Edition] [Fire Note Review 12/1/08]
R.E.M.: Accelerate [Fire Note Review 3/31/08]

Official R.E.M. Website
R.E.M. MySpace
R.E.M. Info [Allmusic]
Warner Bros. Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Systems Officer: Underslept

Systems Officer
Underslept
Temporary Residence LTD [2009]







Fire Note Says: You can't go wrong with this indie rock!

Album Review:
Systems Officer is the solo outing for Armistead Burwell Smith IV, the multi-instrumentalist songwriter and founding member of Pinback and Three Mile Pilot. Underslept was written and recorded between breaks in the Pinback recording and touring schedule, which totals five years in the making. Written, produced and performed by Smith in his home studio, the attention to small details is what makes Underslept successful. Every strum, every falsetto and every lyric seems strategically placed into motion by Smith, while he offers up some uniqueness from his other bands, as he shows off a bit on the piano and gives the record a heart with nicely arranged drum loops. All of this combines for a solid indie pop album that supplies extreme quality while changing things up and containing enough variety for a fun and memorable 45 minutes. Systems Officer is more then just a side project, as it packs enough punch to stand tall on its own. Fans of Smith's other work should immediately seek this record out as it balances his past strengths while giving you a fresh look into his talent!

Key Tracks: "East", "Shape Shifter", "Sand II"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Built To Spill
Pinback
Grizzly Bear

Official Systems Officer Website
Systems Officer MySpace
Temporary Residence Limited

Underslept - Systems Officer

-Reviewed by Sam Damatta

Jawbox: For Your Own Special Sweetheart [Reissue]

Jawbox
For Your Own Special Sweetheart [Reissue]
Dischord/DeSoto Records [1994; re:2009]









Fire Drill Review:
This classic alternative record from J Robbins and the gang in Jawbox has been out of print for way too long and thanks to Dischord and DeSoto records, it is back with a new cover, a sonic touch up and several bonus tracks. The record represents the classic story of a proud indie band that gets a major label deal to launch their sound to the masses. The big difference in this story is that Jawbox completely put everything into it to make sure they didn't fall flat on their face and backed up why they were courted by the big leagues in the first place. It is an album that stands up to the test of time, as it sounds as innovative today as it did then and easily can fit right into any angular rock you currently have playing. For Your Own Special Sweetheart is a definite recommended listening if you have never heard of Jawbox before and easily has quietly crept into one of the better releases in the 90's as showcased by this reissue!

Key Track: "68"

Bands With Similar Fire: Girls Against Boys

Jawbox MySpace
Jawbox Info [Allmusic]
DeSoto Records
Dischord Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Minor Leagues: This Story Is Old, I Know, But It Goes On

The Minor Leagues
This Story Is Old, I Know, But It Goes On
Datawaslost Records [2009]









Fire Drill Review:
Cincinnati band The Minor Leagues, bring seven different members together as their lineup offers up multitudes of talent and sufficiently covers all of the musical bases. This collective effort comes across immediately on This Story Is Old, I Know, But It Goes On, as it is the bands fifth record and really starts to exhibit their veteran recording experience through simple but solid indie pop songs. You can imagine with such a giant group you may get too many different directions but The Minor Leagues did a superb job of not letting numbers get in the way of keeping This Story Is Old, I Know, But It Goes On consistent and concise as the record only runs 35 minutes. Even though different tracks may present bigger sonic soundscapes with horns or other more orchestrated instrumentation, The Minor Leagues true strength is the way they blend a 60's rock vibe with a smooth Brit-pop delivery and really make something unique that is inviting and noteworthy!

Key Track: "Travel Agent"

Band With Similar Fire: The Kinks

Official Minor Leagues Website
The Minor Leagues MySpace
Datawaslost Records

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

The Orange Peels: 2020

The Orange Peels
2020
Minty Fresh Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: A welcomed return for The Orange Peels!

Album Review:
I have always had a special liking for The Orange Peels and I believe that after checking out their new record 2020 you will quickly become a fan too. It has been four years since the band released their last record but 2020 shows that they have not lost one step as their blended style of Brit rock and California power pop is in complete full form. As the title suggests, 2020 deals with perceptions. Being released on the precipice of a new decade, the album is as much about looking back on 10 years gone awry as it is about looking forward to the promises of the future. The Orange Peels do this with quick sharp guitars, soaring melodies and strong rhythms that drive each track and will keep your feet tapping all the way through.

Key Tracks: "We're Gonna Make It", "2020", "Broken Wing"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The dB's
The Posies
10cc

Official The Orange Peels Website
The Orange Peels MySpace
The Orange Peels Info [Allmusic]
Minty Fresh Records

2020 - The Orange Peels

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

John Nolan: Height

John Nolan
Height
Doghouse Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
John Nolan takes advantage of his solo outing and offers a complete unique side of himself that easily can be differentiated from his frontman duties in Straylight Run and the early years of emo rockers Taking Back Sunday. He offers several different styles on Height with acoustic numbers, lo-fi singalongs and several computer beat driven tracks that are all entertaining. Nolan also covers Primitive Radio Gods "Standing Outside A Broken Phone Booth With Money In Hand", which actually is a good example of his style as he accomplishes making this song even more lonely and atmospheric with his likable version. Overall, fans of his other bands will most certainly be into this record, as it showcases his strong songwriting skills and vocals, while giving him one more musical outlet.

Key Track: "It Takes A Long Time"

Band With Similar Fire: Chris Mars

John Nolan MySpace
Doghouse Records

Height - John Nolan

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sheryl Crow: Tuesday Night Music Club [Deluxe Edition]

Sheryl Crow
Tuesday Night Music Club [Deluxe Edition]
A&M/UMG [1993; re:2009]
(2 CD / 1 DVD Set)







Fire Drill Review:
Do you remember when Sheryl Crow was a fresh new singer/songwriter on the scene and her nice little folksy guitar record Tuesday Night Music Club sounded energized? This was before she was connected to Lance Armstrong, sung a duet with Kid Rock or put out sunny pop songs like "Soak Up The Sun". Tuesday Night Music Club offered "Leaving Las Vegas", "Strong Enough" and "Run Baby Run" that came across with full emotion and simply all were able to tap a nerve. Along with the original 1993 album, this package adds a second CD containing B-sides, rarities and out-takes, as well as a bonus DVD featuring the album’s videos (“Leaving Las Vegas,” “All I Wanna Do,” “Strong Enough,” “Can’t Cry Anymore,” “Run, Baby, Run” and “What I Can Do For You,” plus a rare alternate version of “All I Wanna Do” directed by Roman Coppola) and a newly produced documentary comprised of on-the-road, backstage, soundcheck and live footage from the original album tour. At the end of the day the extras are nice here and revisiting this record shows why we cared about Crow in the first place!

Key Track: "Coffee Shop"

Official Sheryl Crow Website
Sheryl Crow MySpace
Sheryl Crow Info [Allmusic]
Universal Music Group

Tuesday Night Music Club - She...

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Dashboard Confessional: Alter The Ending

Dashboard Confessional
Alter The Ending
Universal Music Group [2009]








Fire Note Says: Just not up to our expectations.

Album Review:
There are some groups that I might be excited to hear that power popper gods Butch Walker and Adam Schlesinger (Fountains Of Wayne) are at the helm producing but Dashboard Confessional is absolutely not one of them. When Chris Carrabba busted onto the scene in 2001 with his acoustic heartaches on The Places You Have Come To Fear The Most, it did not become popular because it was full on electric, Carrabba is the best singer or because it had the best written songs. It became a success because it had a soul. For the most part, Dashboard Confessional's sixth record Alter The Ending is missing this key ingredient. Most of the tracks are completely electric and they lose all of the elements that make a solid Dashboard record. It is not that all the tracks are bad and quite frankly if you grab the deluxe version of the record, all the songs are presented acoustically which I feel plays better. In an attempt to stay mainstream, Alter The Ending just feels ok from an artist that I believe could offer so much more and does not need a sugar coat!

Key Tracks: "Belle Of The Boulevard", "Even Now", "Get Me Right"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Rocket Summer
Owl City
Jack's Mannequin

Dashboard Confessional: Dusk And Summer [Fire Note Review 6/27/09]

Official Dashboard Confessional Website
Dashboard Confessional MySpace
Dashboard Confessional Info [Allmusic]
Universal Music Group

Alter The Ending [Deluxe] - Da...

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Tom Waits: Glitter And Doom Live

Tom Waits
Glitter And Doom Live
ANTI- Records [2009]
(2 CD Set)








Fire Drill Review:
Glitter And Doom Live is a two disc collection of tracks from Tom Waits' sold out tour of the US and Europe in the summer of 2008. It does a nice job of not only covering his newer ANTI material but also gives you some classics like "Singapore" and "I'll Shoot The Moon". This record feels cohesive even though the songs are meshed together from all over and if you have never seen Waits live, the record does a solid job of giving you the memorable experience on CD. Disc two is called Tom Tales, which is a selection of the comic bromides, strange musings, and unusual facts that Tom traditionally shares with his audience during the piano set. It is not something that you would listen to multiple times but is a nice addition, given this is a Waits live set staple. Overall, Tom Waits is a big historic name that more people really should know and Glitter And Doom Live is well worth your time for new and old to hear what all the eclectic fuss is about.

Key Track: "Trampled Rose"

Band With Similar Fire: Leonard Cohen

Official Tom Waits Website
Tom Waits MySpace
Tom Waits Info [Allmusic]
ANTI- Records

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Fairmont: The Meadow At Dusk [EP]

Fairmont
The Meadow At Dusk [EP]
Mint 400 Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Fairmont are a solid sounding band that has a guy/gal vocal presentation of mostly upbeat folk rock that rekindles a 90's alternative sound. This should be no surprise to the bands fans, as Fairmont has been releasing music for most of this decade. The lineup has changed a bit over the years but clearly the competent tracks found here all stem from the bands longevity and are good enough to warrant anticipation for a future full length. If you are looking for something that sounds familiar but is new then be sure to seek out The Meadow At Dusk EP because its quality song structures and free spirit will win you over in no time.

Key Track: "I Am The Mountain"

Band With Similar Fire: Velocity Girl

Official Fairmont Website
Fairmont MySpace
Mint 400 Records

The Meadow At Dusk - Fairmont

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

All Time Low: Nothing Personal

All Time Low
Nothing Personal
Hopeless Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: If you are in the mood.

Album Review:
All Time Low fall into the emo pop category and on their third record Nothing Personal their style is in full force. Their lyrics all stay primary focused on good and bad relationships and their music stays upbeat. All Time Low do not spend much time creating overly radio friendly songs which is a positive on Nothing Personal because it enables the band to maintain some edginess to them and never quite feel too sunny. This is what gives their band a bit more swagger and why they were on the main stage of the Warp Tour. Overall, All Time Low may still be a bit too sunshine for some but if you are looking for some simple but yet catchy pop rock then Nothing Personal should keep you going. Moving forward it will be interesting on how some of these bands evolve because I could see All Time Low being one to watch as they age and have a bit more to say - you just need to give em the chance!

Key Tracks: "Weightless", "A Party Song (The Walk Of Shame)", "Stella"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Owl City
Fall Out Boy
Jimmy Eat World

Official All Time Low Website
All Time Low MySpace
All Time Low Info [Allmusic]
Hopeless Records

Nothing Personal - All Time Lo...

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Brand New: Daisy

Brand New
Daisy
Geffen Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Brand New have slowly morphed their style since their early albums and with each record they have reached back more into the group members pre-Brand New hardcore roots. With their earlier records they easily fit into more of an "emo" tag but Daisy shows the further progression of the band that has matured and has many more life experiences to pull from. This translates into a balanced sound that blends their more pop beginnings with an aggressive fuzzed out sound and lyrics that finds them taking a more artistic rock approach. Brand New sound energized, refreshed and downright sinister at times on Daisy, which puts them into their own category and flags them as a band to always check out because they consistently have something to say!

Key Track: "At The Bottom"

Band With Similar Fire: Taking Back Sunday

Official Brand New Website
Brand New MySpace
Brand New Info [Allmusic]
Geffen Records

Daisy - Brand New

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Switchfoot: Hello Hurricane

Switchfoot
Hello Hurricane
Atlantic Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
On Hello Hurricane, Switchfoot sound completely comfortable and well settled into their own rock sound, which actually combines U2 like anthems and Coldplay type rock structures to truly create one of their most unique and non-formula following records to date. This is driven by straight ahead rockers that have teeth and catchy soaring choruses that are memorable. Hello Hurricane represents the work of a band that has been through the major label ringer and survived by consistently improving, recognizing what works for them and just going for it regardless of what anyone else says. Switchfoot may never reach the pinnacle point of their past nor break into a less mainstream scene but if they can keep putting out records like Hello Hurricane, listening to radio will be much more tolerable!

Key Track: "Mess Of Me"

Band With Similar Fire: U2

Switchfoot: The Best Yet [Fire Note Review 11/18/08]

Official Switchfoot Website
Switchfoot MySpace
Switchfoot Info [Allmusic]
Atlantic Records

Hello Hurricane - Switchfoot

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox

Hurricane Bells: Tonight Is The Ghost

Hurricane Bells
Tonight Is The Ghost
Vagrant Records [2009]









Fire Note Says: This is one Hurricane to stick around for!

Album Review:
Hurricane Bells is the new project from Longwave singer/guitarist Steve Schiltz. You may already know the name as they recently had an exclusive song included on the soon to be huge New Moon: Twilight Series Soundtrack and it apparently is one of the first songs used in the movie. That being said, it is one of those great breaks every group longs for and it should translate into some success for Hurricane Bells newly released long player Tonight Is The Ghost. Schiltz gets total credit for the album as he wrote, played, recorded and mixed every note over the past 18 months on his Mac, which translates into the albums intimate melodic tempo that has everything from guitar pop to haunting atmospheric ballads. What makes this record so good is that it is completely pure. Just a talented artist putting his soul into his songs that has a solid mellow indie rock vibe. The entire project is driven by Schiltz's likable voice and veteran songwriting status, which easily puts Hurricane Bells as a band/guy to keep an eye on as we cross into 2010!

*Currently this is a digital release only - a physical release is expected February 2010.

Key Tracks: "This Year", "This Is A Test", "The Winters In New York"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sea Wolf
Death Cab For Cutie
Pedro The Lion

Longwave: Secrets Are Sinister [Fire Note Review 12/2/08]

Hurricane Bells MySpace
Vagrant Records

-Reviewed by Roxy Cowell

Laarks: An Exaltation Of Laarks

Laarks
An Exaltation Of Laarks
Absolutely Kosher Records [2009]







Fire Drill Review:
Wisconsin's Laarks have all the components of a solid indie rock band that includes swirling guitars, melodic hooks and quick lyrical turns. It is a debut record that has been in the works since March 2007 and was totally completed by the band, which covers everything from the recording to the artwork, as An Exaltation Of Laarks has been out independently since early this year and Absolutely Kosher has just now gave it an official release. The record is full of energy that sparks quickly with guitar rock outs and strong lead vocals from singer/songwriter/keyboarder Ian Jacoby. It actually is the records textured strategic pauses and quick moments of reflection that complete An Exaltation Of Laarks and make it a debut well worthy of checking out!

Key Track: "What God Hath Wrought"

Band With Similar Fire: Ass Ponys

Official Laarks Website
Laarks MySpace
Absolutely Kosher Records

An Exaltation of Laarks - Laar...

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Snow Patrol: Up To Now

Snow Patrol
Up To Now
Fiction/A&M Records [2009]
(2 CD Set)








Fire Drill Review:
With fifteen years and five albums, Snow Patrol, have much more material then many know about, as this new 2 disc compilation, Up To Now not only captures the hits but also features rarities, covers songs and three new tracks. This will be an eye opener for many fans that discovered Snow Patrol through their smash hit "Chasing Cars" in 2006 as Up To Now grabs a handful of tracks from their first couple of more "indie" type records. What this compilation does show is the progression of Snow Patrol from a really indie band to a group more set for the mainstream. This is not a bad thing but just the evolution of finding themselves. It also shows that Snow Patrol have a fun side with including a cover version of Beyonce's "Crazy In Love" as well as displaying how consistent their more recent material has been. Overall the length of Up To Now may lose the casual listener but for longtime fans it will complete their catalog and is a solid listen all the way through!

Key Track: "Give Me Strength"

Band With Similar Fire: Coldplay

Snow Patrol: A Hundred Million Suns [Fire Note Review 11/5/08]

Official Snow Patrol Website
Snow Patrol MySpace
Snow Patrol Info [Allmusic]
A&M/Interscope Records

-Reviewed by Robyn Gatsby

Them Crooked Vultures: Them Crooked Vultures

Them Crooked Vultures
Them Crooked Vultures
Interscope Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Classic rock returns!

Album Review:
Them Crooked Vultures probably extends beyond the "supergroup" tag as John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age) storied past extends well beyond one adjective. I am not sure if it should be "super supergroup" but this trio unites on their self-titled debut for a solid gritty rock n roll record that hits hard, cranks the volume and generally puts all of the players best foot forward. Homme mostly takes the vocal leads, while Grohl comes through loud and clear pounding the skins and it leaves Jones rightfully laying down the heavy bass lines. Them Crooked Vultures does not feel mashed together or hurried, which is a plus for them, although overall many of the songs here are like a major jam session. Clearly with this talent, jam sessions are welcomed but the albums running time crosses the hour mark and could have benefited a bit from some editing. Regardless if we ever see another record from Them Crooked Vultures, the combination of this tri-fecta fire power makes for an interesting listen and enough highlights to blow your speakers and start an entire new classic rock revolution!

Key Tracks: "No One Loves Me & Neither Do I", "New Fang", "Caligulove"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Wolfmother
Foo Fighters
Queens Of The Stone Age

Official Them Crooked Vultures Website
Them Crooked Vultures MySpace
Them Crooked Vultures Info [Allmusic]
Interscope Records

Them Crooked Vultures - Them C...

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Pablo: There's Rope To Leave

Pablo
There's Rope To Leave
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Pablo's debut was a somewhat laid back affair so the first noticeable difference with the groups sophomore record There's Rope To Leave is its expansion of sound and overall upbeat vibe. This uptempo vibe was developed over a year and half, as the record started off as an eight track bedroom recording in front man Paul Schalda’s home but ended up at Levon Helm's upstate New York recording studio. The final version showcases the fuller sound and gets stronger as you move into the middle of the record with the upbeat one-two-three of "Hey Luci", "Morning", and By Up I Mean", which are more memorable then anything else on the record and make There's Rope To Leave a quality second album for the band.

Key Track: "Morning"

Band With Similar Fire: Matt Pond PA

Pablo: Half The Time [Fire Note Review 11/15/06]

Official Pablo Website
Pablo MySpace
Pablo Info [Allmusic]

There's Rope To Leave - Pablo

-Reviewed by Sam DaMatta

Kings Of Convenience: Declaration Of Dependence

Kings Of Convenience
Declaration Of Dependence
Astralwerks Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: Hush is their style - Quiet is their magic!

Album Review:
There is something so simple about Kings Of Convenience approach to music but something so complex about their execution. It is their modern day Simon & Garfunkel style that will draw even the most casual listener into their hush tones and minimal instrument support. Considering Declaration Of Dependence is the groups third record, one might expect them to shake it up a bit, add some electronics or maybe even sneak a large guitar riff in there but the duo of Oye and Boe downturn things even more and challenge your attention and your ear. With songs that feel like whispers and strumming that you need to turn up, you might question why bother. The answer is that these two play off each other and create true song depth with their melodies and eloquent delivery. All of these moments add up to a welcomed return for Kings Of Convenience as they showcase how they have not lost one step since their last release in 2004 and in fact, they sound more confident then ever!

Key Tracks: "24-25", "My Ship Isn't Pretty", "Boat Behind"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Belle & Sebastian
Simon & Garfunkel
Nick Drake

Official Kings Of Convenience Website
Kings Of Convenience MySpace
Kings Of Convenience Info [Allmusic]
Astralwerks Records

Declaration Of Dependence - Ki...

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Dead Stars: Break The Tide

Dead Stars
Break The Tide
Self-Released [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
This Brooklyn band is currently flying below the radar but their debut Break The Tide may eventually change some of that with its loud textured guitars and full blown out rock songs, which instantly brings to mind alt icon Dinosaur Jr. It is not that the Dead Stars bring anything new or innovative to the table but rather their focus on solid song structures, moving rhythms and intricate guitar play makes Break The Tide a worthy listen. The band succeeds in taking a very 90's rock approach and making it current with their energy and forward lyrics. This creates a perfect balance for the Dead Stars that should be capable of pulling in a new crowd while attracting those of us still cranking out the fuzzy rock from our past!

Key Track: "Fade Away"

Band With Similar Fire: Dinosaur Jr.

Official Dead Stars Website
Dead Stars MySpace

Break the Tide - Dead Stars

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Morphine: At Your Service

Morphine
At Your Service
Rhino/Ryko Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: In memory of the Sandman!

Album Review:
It has been ten years since the early passing of Morphine frontman Mark Sandman and this two disc, 35 track collection contains all of their previously unissued studio tracks, alternate takes, and live performances, that span the groups entire career. It is a nice closing piece to a group that not only was cut way too short but also was a group that always was able to surprise critics and fans with their unconventional approach to music. Morphine's lack of guitar always was a factoid about the band that made them unique and what you can hear on At Your Service is how much their music ebbs and flows without there use. Many of the alternative and live versions found here have a very free form vibe to them, which is almost the perfect encapsulation of Morphine the band because their live show always was a strength and routinely gave their music a life of its own. Nothing on At Your Service will gain a bunch of new fans nor would I have any newbies start with this collection but for longtime followers it is must grab. In Mark Sandman's words "We are Morphine at your service!"

Key Tracks: "Patience (Alt. Version)", "Shadow (I Know You Part V)", "Buena (Alt. Version)"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Beck
Medeski Martin & Wood
Yo La Tengo

Morphine Info Website
Morphine MySpace
Morphine Info [Allmusic]
Rhino Records

At Your Service - Morphine

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Audra Mae: Haunt [EP]

Audra Mae
Haunt [EP]
SideOneDummy Records [2009]









Fire Drill Review:
Audra Mae is a new artist that you should check out now before she blows up in 2010. On the Haunt EP, Mae shows off her smooth as silk delivery in each of the ep's five folk country tracks and simply has one of those voices that floats. Mae is actually the grand niece of Judy Garland and has been performing in musical theater since she was 4, which comes through on record as confidence, as each song is fully developed, likable and inviting. She currently is working with Ted Hutt (Flogging Molly, Gaslight Anthem, Mighty Mighty Bosstones) on her 2010 debut and has already had a cover song featured on the TV show Sons Of Anarchy, so now is your chance to hear an emerging artist, as the Haunt EP will certainly impress any listener and give you a full length to look forward to next year!

Key Track: "The River"

Band With Similar Fire: Neko Case

Audra Mae MySpace
SideOneDummy Records

Haunt - Audra Mae

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Farewell: Run It Up The Flagpole

Farewell
Run It Up The Flagpole
Epitaph Records [2009]








Fire Drill Review:
Not only is there nothing wrong with a straight forward pop punk album but it is almost refreshing to hear a record today without tons of gimmicks while being full of catchy anthems supported only by guitars, bass and drums. That is exactly what you get on Farewell's sophomore album Run It Up The Flagpole, as it bounces and hops from track to track with lyrical content that the band clearly focused in on. This attitude towards quality shines through the entire LP, as each memorable hook and foot tapper rolls quickly in 35 minutes, while injecting new energy to a genre that has been glossed over for too long!

Key Track: "We All Fall Down"

Band With Similar Fire: Blink-182

Farewell MySpace
Farewell Info [Allmusic]
Epitaph Records

Run It Up The Flagpole - Farew...

-Reviewed by Reece Michael

Bear in Heaven: Beast Rest Forth Mouth

Bear in Heaven
Beast Rest Forth Mouth
Hometapes Records [2009]








Fire Note Says: This album has an immediate appeal that leaves a lasting impression!

Album Review:
On their sophomore record Beast Rest Forth Mouth, Brooklyn's Bear in Heaven successfully walk the fine line of blending an indie psychedelic undertone with spontaneous prog moments that all get fenced in with solid pop anthems. It is a sound that feels fresh and inserts a sense of confidence in every track that absolutely works. It would be easy for a band experimenting with some of these ideas to wander off in a multitude of directions and carry on for 6 or 7 minute tracks but that is exactly what Bear in Heaven don't even think about. The band skillfully keeps just about every track within the 3 or 4 minute pop time frame, that adds cohesiveness and catchiness to Beast Rest Forth Mouth, while still leaves it feeling somewhat experimental. This is a record that has an immediate appeal with its intricate soundscapes and well defined vocals but it is with multiple plays that you realize Bear in Heaven have released one of the better albums this year and once again highlight Brooklyn as a hotbed for new music!

Key Tracks: "Lovesick Teenagers", "Wholehearted Mess", "Ultimate Satisfaction"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Girls
The Flaming Lips
Neon Indian

Official Bear in Heaven Website
Bear in Heaven MySpace
Bear in Heaven Info [Allmusic]
Hometapes Records

-Reviewed by Aidan Rox