Memorial Day

The Fire Note is off today for the holiday. Check back tomorrow for new album reviews.

The Futureheads: The Chaos

The Futureheads
The Chaos
Dovecote Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: The Chaos will rock you!

Album Review:
A charging "5-4-3-2-1" kicks off The Futureheads fourth album The Chaos and basically it announces to the world that the band is back in full form and warns you to buckle your seatbelt for the next 4o minutes. The group throws all experimentation to the side, as they concentrate on hitting you with an intense verse followed by build-up instrumentation that all comes together with soaring group harmonies. The band fires at you on all fronts with tight tracks that average around 3 minutes with each having a foot tapping momentum and never really giving you a chance to breathe. The electric vibe The Futureheads create works through the entire album and really skips their last several efforts and builds off their self-titled 2004 debut. The approach succeeds here and makes The Chaos a completely thrill of a ride and absolutely will please longtime fans. The Chaos does an excellent job of moving along and packs a bunch of spirited anthems into its 40 minutes. The Futureheads have made a record that is catchy and memorable, so if you wrote this band off after This Is Not The World [2008] then it is time to put them back on your radar because The Chaos will sell you in its opening 10 seconds!

Key Tracks: "Stop The Noise", "Sun Goes Down", "Heartbeat Song"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Clash
Franz Ferdinand
The Jam

The Futureheads: This Is Not The World [Fire Note Review 6/2/08]
The Futureheads: News And Tributes [Fire Note Review 6/14/06]

Official Futureheads Website
The Futureheads MySpace
The Futureheads Facebook
Dovecote Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Elk City: House Of Tongues

Elk City
House Of Tongues
Friendly Fire Recordings [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
House Of Tongues is the fourth album from New York's Elk City. Lead by the stellar vocals of Renée LoBue, the band circles through several different structures on its ten tracks. It is a true blend of rock, folk, soul and jazz, that at times has LoBue rocking out like a PJ Harvey or Kristin Hersh, while being able to bring it down a notch with a more sultry Hope Sandoval approach. The band morphs right along with her voice and gives Elk City the cohesiveness it needs to make House Of Tongues one of their best releases yet!

Key Track: "For The Uninitiated"

Band With Similar Fire: Kristin Hersh

Official Elk City Website
Elk City MySpace
Elk City Facebook
Friendly Fire Recordings

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Paul Weller: Wake Up The Nation

Paul Weller
Wake Up The Nation
Yep Roc Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Weller still plays with no rules and wins on Wake Up The Nation!

Album Review:
I don't think anyone will argue with you that Paul Weller's last record 22 Dreams [2008] was slightly long, clocking in at over an hour but was also crazily creative and a realization that Weller has not lost a beat. Wake Up The Nation continues this creative punch, as Weller not only revisits some of his past styles but pushes beyond them into several psychedelic stomps, disco foot tapping beats and spirited jazz-outs throughout the records 40 minutes. He is an artist that has always done things on his own, enjoys starting from scratch and doesn't like to make the same album twice. Wake Up The Nation has this motto holding true with the one major expectation to the rule being the return of longtime writer/producer Simon Dine. The rest of the album brings in different talent with the most notable being My Bloody Valentine's Kevin Shields, Move/ELO drummer Bev Bevan and the surprising reunion with former Jam member Bruce Foxton on bass. This pairing ups the energy on Wake Up The Nation, as it has almost been three decades since these two men have played together. Paul Weller is already a rock icon but it is exhilarating to know that for being over 50, he can still release an album of style shifting rock that is excellent, relevent and worthy of every minute you give it, when it would be so easy for him just to fade away or rely on a Jam reunion to get his kicks - thank God for us he didn't!

Key Tracks: "Wake Up The Nation", "Up The Dosage", "Two Fat Ladies"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Elvis Costello
Noel Gallagher
Morrissey

Paul Weller: 22 Dreams [Fire Note Review 8/1/08]

Official Paul Weller Website
Paul Weller MySpace
Paul Weller Facebook
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Bettye Lavette: Interpretations - The British Rock Songbook

Bettye Lavette
Interpretations: The British Rock Songbook
ANTI- Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
I am the world's biggest sucker for a covers record but when I heard veteran soul singer Bettye Lavette was taking on the Brits I couldn't wait to check it out. Lavette covers big names here in The Beatles, The Who, The Moody Blues, Led Zeppelin, Elton John and Pink Floyd. In most cases she completely dismantles the songs all the way from the lyrics to pace, while giving them her vocal all. Interpretations works because of Lavette's passionate voice which sounds as strong today as it did twenty years ago. Nothing on here is going to completely blow you way but her re-working of the tempos, lyrics and pace pulls an entirely different set of emotions from these tracks which is the true spirit of the record. Bettye Lavette is a great singer, so it is no surprise how she can crank these classic tunes out but the real heart of album lies in the slow pace of most tracks. This gives you an unique opportunity, possibly for the first time, to examine and feel the lyrics of your favorite song in a whole new way!

Key Track: "Maybe I'm Amazed"

Band With Similar Fire: Aretha Franklin

Bettye LaVette: The Scene Of The Crime [Fire Note Review 10/29/07]

Official Bettye LaVette Website
Bettye LaVette MySpace
Bettye LaVette Facebook
Anti- Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Woods: At Echo Lake

Woods
At Echo Lake
Woodist Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Woods quickly returns with another stellar record that should land in our Top 50!

Album Review:
Last year to the day we introduced you to the lo-fi folk tinged songs of Woods and not only did their superbness take us by surprise but the record held up well throughout the year and ended up #24 in our Top 50 of 2009. Well, once again lead by the intriguing vocals of Jeremy Earl, Woods have made a quick return with another record that will actually rival and compete with Songs Of Shame [2009] for top honors of their catalog.  

At Echo Lake stays the course and does not change the formula, while offering another enjoyable 30 minutes of lo-fi meets jam band experience and simply does not sound like much else out there on the indie scene today. This unique and simplistic approach comes across very sincere and makes the listener really dive into the songs. Woods also has a remarkable ability to blend this jam band undertone into songs that barley pass the two or three minute mark - basically creating the low key vibe but keeping the record's pace moving along.

At Echo Lake is a likable record that I guarantee you will become enamored with after just one spin. Woods are definitely in a perfect album groove right now and At Echo Lake shows that the hot streak is not going to slow anytime soon which is great news for us!

Key Tracks: "I Was Gone", "Suffering Season", "Deep"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Tallest Man On Earth
Chris Knox
Grateful Dead

Woods: Songs Of Shame [Fire Note Review 5/26/09]

Official Woods Website
Woods MySpace
Woodist Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

AM Taxi: We Don't Stand A Chance

AM Taxi
We Don't Stand A Chance
Virgin Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
You can add Chicago's AM Taxi to the list of bands that are combining a sort of raspy Springsteen style rock with revved up punk anthems. On the groups debut, We Don't Stand A Chance, AM Taxi give you 40 minutes of foot tapping music, that will instantly grab your ear with their catchy choruses and sharp guitars. The end result for AM Taxi is that We Don't Stand A Chance is a fair debut, that has its moments but runs a tad long and is not diverse enough to keep your full interest until its conclusion. For fans of this style, AM Taxi show enough promise to check out but the group may need some help to grab a bigger audience this go around as the competition in this genre just keeps getting bigger.

Key Track: "Fed Up"

Band With Similar Fire: The Gaslight Anthem

Official AM Taxi Website
AM Taxi MySpace
AM Taxi Facebook
Virgin Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Foals: Total Life Forever

Foals

Total Life Forever

Sub Pop Records [2010]

Fire Note Says: A large step forward for the Foals!

Album Review:

You just never know how a sophomore outing will go for a band after they have tasted success and for the UK's Foals, Total Life Forever comes off with a maturity well beyond the bands age. The group takes a risk and avoids the second album slump by expanding their sound, exchanging their previous punk vocals with a more focused singing and breaking out of the confinement of their tight song structures for a much more atmospheric loose free form. What rises up out of Total Life Forever is a confidence from this new direction, that immediately sells the listener on the idea. Their songs float beyond the six minute mark on more than one occasion and consistently have something going on to keep you entertained. The Foals smartly still retain their trademark guitars on Total Life Forever but the twist is, that they use them in a more complementing manner versus propelling each track along. With the combination of frontman Yannis Philippakis captivating vocals and the emotions that pour out of each of these tracks, it feels as if the Foals have taken a giant artistic step forward. What Total Life Forever really does for the Foals is take them to the next level, as they move from a breakthrough band to career band in just a short amount of time.

Key Tracks: "Spanish Sahara", "This Orient", "After Glow"

Bands With Similar Fire:

Doves

The Cure

Bloc Party

Official Foals Website

Foals MySpace

Foals Facebook

Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Timber: Scrawled

Timber

Scrawled

Cowboy Angel Music [2010]

Fire Drill Review:

There is a quiet simplicity with the style of Americana that Athens, Georgia band Timber present on their third full-length Scrawled. Singer Daniel Aaron has the tone of a young Michael Stipe that is complimented by the female harmonies of Sarah Schindler, which play off each other perfectly throughout the album. Timber is rounded out with members adding banjo, mandolin, upright bass, accordion and pedal steel to achieve their overall sound. The group walks the Americana line that can have both an old-time feel like on closing track "The Dawn Is Enough To Get Me Through The Night" and the catchy ballad "Miles Away" but still can generate a natural indie vibe with emotionally charged tracks like "It's Too Late Tonight" and "Anger". Timber is a band that are way under the radar but after one spin of Scrawled they easily make you want to stay and spread the word about their heartfelt honest record that contains qualities that are just simply hard to find in music anymore!

Key Track: "It's Too Late Tonight"

Band With Similar Fire: Old Crow Medicine Show

Timber MySpace

Timber Facebook

Cowboy Angel Music

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Janelle Monáe: The ArchAndroid

Janelle Monáe
The ArchAndroid
Bad Boy/Atlantic Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Instant surprise with epic long player debut!

Album Review:
The ArchAndroid is one killer epic of a debut long player from hip youngster Janelle Monáe that features 18 tracks of genre jumping fun. It is a big record in every sense, as it is on Sean Combs Bad Boy Entertainment label, based on a full fledged sci-fi concept and has big names appearing on tracks, like poet Saul Williams, hip-hop star Big Boi from OutKast, and indie darling Of Montreal. It shows spunk and spirit in riot tracks like "Cold War" or "Come Alive (War Of Roses)", sway and swagger in single "Tightrope" and pure soul on "Oh, Maker". Monáe sells this record with her carefree attitude, that never comes off smug nor does it ever seem out of control. This big record approach could swallow even the most veteran artist but it never even comes close to happening with Janelle. It also doesn't matter what type of genre she is tackling be it blues, British rock, R&B, trip-hop or punk, Monáe gives 100% and the songs come off solid. All the way down to the over the top album cover, The ArchAndoroid could have been one giant blown up mess but instead you get a spectacular record that breaks down the genre wall, much like an Outkast, Gnarls Barkley or M.I.A. and simply will "wow you" with its fun and catchy sophistication!

Key Tracks: "Tightrope (feat. Big Boi)", "Come Alive (War Of Roses)", "Cold War"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Outkast
Santigold
Dizzee Rascal

Official Janelle Monáe Website
Janelle Monáe MySpace
Janelle Monáe Facebook
Atlantic Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Jews And Catholics: Who Are? We Think We Are!

Jews And Catholics
Who Are? We Think We Are!
307 Knox Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
You would never guess that Winston Salem band Jews And Catholics were a duo, as their fuzzy guitars, pounding rhythms and high energy pace create a soundscape you would only think capable from an arsenal of members. The reality is, Jews And Catholics are comprised of upright bassist Alanna Meltzer and guitarist/vocalist/sequencist Eddie Garcia. It is a true rock blending of Meltzer’s 10 years orchestra experience and Garcia’s 14 years of rock band duties. Who Are? We Think We Are! has a sophistication to it that is able to maintain its big rock anthems, while still providing enough punchy moments that kick your speakers in gear. In the 40 minutes here, Jews And Catholics show both promise and need for growth as several tracks are real keepers and others won't make an impression but with a great band name and plenty of good ideas they should still be a band to watch!

Key Track: "Golden Arrow"

Band With Similar Fire: Mission Of Burma

Official Jews And Catholics Website
Jews And Catholics MySpace
Jews And Catholics Facebook
307 Knox Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Far: At Night We Live

Far

At Night We Live

Vagrant Records [2010]

Fire Note Says: A warm welcome back to trend setters Far!

Album Review:

1998 was a different musical environment when Sacramento band Far last released a record, which just happened to be the critically hailed Water & Solutions. They were a band that was ahead of the curve and successfully blended hooks, hardcore and rock to create their unique emotional sound. Well they are back in full form with the new full length At Night We Live and it is filled with emotionally charged tracks, that brings all of their best elements together again for a solid listen front to back. The heavy rocker "Deafening" kicks things off with pounding drums, a monster riff and lead singer Jonah Matranga's recognizable howl. Now what always set Far above the rest was their ability to morph identities within their music but never lose their cool undertone. That same scenario plays out on At Night We Live, as the second track "If You Cared Enough" has a soaring and memorable chorus that could fit in your shuffle playlist next to U2 or Jimmy Eat World. The band has not lost one step in the last twelve years and puts in 100% emotion on each and every track, which translates into two minute hardcore anthems like found in "Fight Song #16,233,241" or the power pop play featured in "Burns". Over the years, Far has influenced a countless number of bands and although they don't sound as groundbreaking today, the group comes off here like the confident veterans that they are and At Night We Live will not only please long time fans but will gain an entire new set of ears to tout their greatness!

Key Tracks: "Burns", "Deafening", "Fight Song #16, 233, 241"

Bands With Similar Fire:

Thursday

Jimmy Eat World

Deftones

Official Far Website

Far MySpace

Far Facebook

Vagrant Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band: The Wages

The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band

The Wages

SideOneDummy Records [2010]

Fire Drill Review:

You won't find a more unique unit then The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band and their foot stompin' punk bluegrass. The Wages is a record that has an edgy upbeat swagger to it, and was recorded live in the studio with no overdubs on analog tape. This organic vibe shines through, as the group once again brings in their best washboards, bottleneck slides and five-gallon buckets to complement their traditional instruments. The key to The Wages success is that the record gives you just what you signed up for and The Rev Peyton's Big Damn Band has a large confidence to them that translates to your listening experience and could turn even the most simple pop fan into their dedicated follower. If you are like me, then you will enjoy how The Rev Peyton offers a completely different record here, which may not immediately appeal but over time will win you over and probably at some point, even make you slap your knees and grab an instrument to play along!

Key Track: "Clap Your Hands"

Band With Similar Fire: Legendary Shack Shakers

The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band: The Whole Fam Damnily [Fire Note Review 8/13/08]

Official Rev Peyton's Big Damn Band Website
The Rev Peyton's Big Damn Band MySpace
The Rev Peyton's Big Damn Band Facebook
SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Greg Laswell: Take A Bow

Greg Laswell
Take A Bow
Vanguard Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: His voice just never gets old!

Album Review:
We have said it before but Greg Laswell just has one of those voices which should immediately capture your ear. He has a smooth delivery and on his third full length Take A Bow, he offers another 12 songs of heartfelt sonic mid tempo jams that showcase his talents as a songwriter and most definitely a singer. After last years stellar Covers EP, we know that his influences range from Echo & The Bunnymen to Kate Bush, which should discourage any naysayers from claiming Laswell is simplified pop. Sure his music has had multiple spins on Grey's Anatomy but that show has the same music producer that put Death Cab on the map. Take A Bow does not contain any groundbreaking moments but it stays the course for Laswell's more then competent song structures and has a knack for hitting the right emotional chord. One distraction on Take A Bow is its slower pace on the last fourth of the album, as the record just sort of fades away. That piece is slightly disappointing because Laswell's ballad's have soaring anthems and his upbeat numbers carry a very Coldplay vibe, which should still translate to mass appeal. Greg Laswell is a very talented artist and Take A Bow is another solid performance in his arsenal!

Key Tracks: "Take Everything", "Come Clean", "Off I Go"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Coldplay
Ron Sexsmith
Snow Patrol

Greg Laswell: Covers [EP] [Fire Note Review 10/15/09]
Greg Laswell: Three Nights From Alto Nido [Fire Note Review 9/3/08]
Greg Laswell: How The Day Sounds EP [Fire Note Review 3/25/08]
Greg Laswell: Through Toledo [Fire Note Review 8/17/06]

Official Greg Laswell Website
Greg Laswell MySpace
Greg Laswell Facebook
Vanguard Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Keane: Night Train

Keane
Night Train
Interscope Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
At some point you need to recognize your strengths and get back to your roots if things just don't seem to be going your way. Since 2008's Perfect Symmetry, Keane have been tweaking their sound and almost have tried to hard to crack out of their mold. The problem is that they are too good at soaring catchy Brit melodies, that suck you into their emotions and without them they lose their identity. Night Train once again finds the band trying a bit hard at aiming for the mainstream. Too many songs on this mini-album (8 total tracks) start in great directions but lose their way with a bit too much of pop music tinkering in the mix. Ultimately, Keane need to focus on their strengths and the mainstream success will come back without overdoing it!

Key Track: "Stop For A Minute (feat. K'Naan)"

Band With Similar Fire: Starsailor

Keane: Perfect Symmetry [Fire Note Review 10/21/08]
Keane: Under The Iron Sea [Fire Note Review 7/31/06]

Official Keane Website
Keane MySpace
Keane Facebook
Insterscope Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Black Keys: Brothers

The Black Keys
Brothers
Nonesuch Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Best album The Black Keys have released in years!

Album Review:
On their last several releases The Black Keys seemed to distance themselves from their grinding blues garage rock in favor of a more refined sound that found them experimenting with different instruments and working with DJ/producer Danger Mouse. It wasn't until Dan Auerbach's excellent solo record last year did we start to see the Black Keys we know and love. Well many fans will be flocking to their sixth album Brothers because it is somewhat a return to their early form with the only difference being maturity. Their sound is still more polished here and may not be as in your ear with volume but their true soul pours out right from the beginning foot stomping beats of "Everlasting Lights" and just keeps on rolling. The thick guitar strum in "Next Girl" is infectious, while first single "Tighten Up" scorches out the blues rock with Auerbach's recognizable howl in full effect. By the time you hit the bluesed up instrumental "Black Mud", you are already sold on the goods The Black Keys are offering. Song after song, The Black Keys hit you with a cool swagger that keeps your interest and makes you excited for what is next. What makes Brothers such a home run is that The Black Keys still utilize their recent musical education but now apply it to a sound that is a better fit. The refreshed vibe comes off during slow grinders like "Too Afraid To Love You" and even more so on the cover of Jerry Butler's "Never Gonna Give You Up" that is superb. This maturity translates into a record that sets its own pace, invites you to get on board, and lets you get off anytime you want through its dazzling hour of blues sophistication. This is what The Black Keys are all about!

Key Tracks: "Tighten Up", "Next Girl", "Unknown Brother"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Robert Johnson
The Pack A.D.
Junior Kimbrough

Drummer: Feel Good Together [Fire Note Review: 10/2/09]
Dan Auerbach: Keep It Hid [Fire Note Review 2/9/09]
The Black Keys: Attack & Release [Fire Note Review 4/15/08]
The Black Keys: Magic Potion [Fire Note Review 10/5/06]

Official Black Keys Website
The Black Keys MySpace
The Black Keys Facebook
Nonesuch Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

CocoRosie: Grey Oceans

CocoRosie
Grey Oceans
Sub Pop Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
When you are a band that pushes the limits and offers up a challenging and somewhat experimental listen each and every time, there always needs to be a sense of caution to the listener. The sister act of CocoRosie is one of those bands and on their new full length Grey Oceans, you can hear the artistic approach knocking but never actually seem to get anything that makes you want to hang around and open the door. Long time followers will still appreciate Grey Oceans but will recognize some of the missed opportunities, as songs move away from ideas too quickly. Grey Oceans is a record that will already have a niche appeal because CocoRosie are, and like being different, so at the end of the day it is all about where you are coming from and if you are up for the challenge!

Key Track: "The Moon Asked The Crow"

Band With Similar Fire: Bjork

Official CocoRosie Website
CocoRosie MySpace
CocoRosie Facebook
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

LCD Soundsystem: This Is Happening

LCD Soundsystem
This Is Happening
Virgin/DFA Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: LCD Soundsystem makes a challenge for "Album Of The Year" with third long player This Is Happening!

Album Review:
Time for a little confession - I never have cared much for club music, I never have really cared for songs that go past 5 or 6 minutes, and I never have really cared much for LCD Soundsytem's albums as a whole. Sure, I can dig some of their singles and appreciate the critical praise other publications have laid upon leader James Murphy but until now, I never got it! With his third long player This Is Happening - I get it! This record showcases Murphy's talents for pulling some of the best components of rocks history and cultivating them into his own gorgeous album that has attitude, beats, catchy anthems and a likability that just shouldn't come this naturally. Clearly you have to earn it and Murphy has put in his homework that pays off on This Is Happening, because he accomplishes giving props to the swagger of The Strokes in "All I Want" and has a U2 impression in the smooth "I Can Change" that completely works as his own. The fun pogo music play on "Drunk Girls" offers up an interesting combo, that at times sounds like the Cars, Devo and most certainly the Talking Heads. All of these big names being thrown out might seem like LCD Soundsytem stole their mojo but honestly this is a record that has the same characteristics that made those bands great but finds its own unique groove on each and every track. With most tracks pushing beyond the 6 minute mark, LCD Soundsystem incorporates plenty of action to keep the songs moving and never dulls. This is the true genius behind This Is Happening, as it never slows down and just gives more and more with repeat listens. The album breaks every stereotype that I had about a record like this and LCD Soundsystem, as it never feels like a club album (although I am sure it will play clubs to the last call), it has really long songs but contains so much action within their walls, that you don't even realize how lengthy some of them are and it works both in its entirety or in small chunks because of its solid qualities. I do believe This Is Happening is a legitimate challenger for album of the year already, as it has a flawless flow with seamless transitions and is driven by such an energetic James Murphy, that you need a little oxygen upon conclusion. I say - give me the mask and keep the record rolling again!

Key Tracks: "Dance Yrself Clean", "Drunk Girls", "You Wanted A Hit"

Band With Similar Fire:
Talking Heads
Crystal Castles
The Cars

Official LCD Soundsystem Website
LCD Soundsystem MySpace
LCD Soundsystem Facebook
DFA Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Male Bonding: Nothing Hurts

Male Bonding
Nothing Hurts
Sub Pop Records [2010]








Fire Drill Review:
Getting to know the UK's Male Bonding will be some of the best 30 minutes you have spent in awhile. The group puts out a blast of direct and short punk rock but remains in complete control giving sonic bursts, catchy hooks, memorable melodies and tight band turns at every moment possible. Male Bonding works as one moving piece, that knows exactly how to delivery the goods on Nothing Hurts, which makes the record as fun as it is stellar. Male Bonding are a band to keep an ear on and Nothing Hurts easily falls into one of the better debut records that has released so far this year!

Key Track: "Crooked Scene"

Band With Similar Fire: No Age

Male Bonding MySpace
Male Bonding Facebook
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Pearly Gate Music: Pearly Gate Music

Pearly Gate Music
Pearly Gate Music
Barsuk Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: This is a folky grower!

Album Review:
Pearly Gate Music is actually one talented guy named Zach Tillman who brings his eclectic tastes to your front door on this self titled debut. He does however use other musicians in the process and his drumming brother Josh, from the Fleet Foxes, also lends a hand. Tillman presents very simple song structures, that have a somewhat lo-fi undertone, while still pulling in sporadic melodic harmonies that really sell each song. This approach allows the listener to take a ride with his very vivid lyrics and enables the ability to shut the window on the outside world for its complete 36 minutes. Pearly Gate Music is the perfect title as many of the songs here have an atmospheric and almost church revival vibe, as Tillman's voice represents the poet or preacher leading the service. It is the haunting quietness that surrounds Zach's voice that truly makes Pearly Gates Music an indie must for fans of this folk style, as it recreates moments made famous by greats Hank Williams to Neil Young and even more recently the harmonics of the Fleet Foxes. Pearly Gate Music is in it for the long haul as this debut really is a marathon not just a sprint!

Key Tracks: "Big Escape","Gossamer Hair", "Oh, What A Time!"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Mark Lanegan
Pete Krebs
Jeff Buckley

Pearly Gate Music MySpace
Barsuk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion: Now I Got Worry | Controversial Negro [Reissues]

The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Now I Got Worry | Controversial Negro [Reissues]
Majordomo Records [2010]




Fire Drill Review:
I said it before and I will say it again - The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion was ahead of their time. These two reissues not only give sonic upgrades to each record but now makes the previously only released in Japan live album Controversial Negro [1997] an absolute must for US fans that have never have laid their ears on it. Live was always where Spencer ruled the stage and this reissue adds ten bonus tracks on the set list which include fan favorites "Bellbottoms" and "Greyhound". It expanded the total tracks to 29 and is a hour and fourteen minutes of dirty blues rock that is a thrilling ride to the end. Now I Got Worry [1996] was remastered from the original master tapes and has been doubled in length to 32 tracks. It is just another solid record in Spencer's collection and sounds just as fresh and rocking today. The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion should be a band you know about and these reissues plus The First Ten Years [2010] compilation gives you every opportunity to start your education!

Key Track: "Bellbottoms (Live)" , "Chocolate Joe"

Band With Similar Fire: The Black Keys

The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion: Dirty Shirt Rock 'N' Roll: The First Ten Years [Fire Note Review 4/30/10]
Heavy Trash: Midnight Soul Serenade [Fire Note Review 11/30/09]

Official Jon Spencer Blues Explosion Website
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion MySpace
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion Facebook
Majordomo Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Band Of Horses: Infinite Arms

Band Of Horses
Infinite Arms
Columbia Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Band ups the tempo but retains their core!

Album Review:
I knew change was possible when Band Of Horses left Sub Pop and headed to major label Columbia Records for their highly anticipated album number three Infinite Arms. After having such an indie breakthrough with Cease To Begin [2007], the bar was set very high for the group to capture the same graceful flow as before, especially with several rotating band members. The key component here is still lead vocalist and creative director Ben Bridwell, as he is even more front and center then previous efforts. The change I referred to before is present on Infinite Arms as Band Of Horses gradually have shifted their songs into a more grounded roots rock category that has some reduction in textured harmonies but an increase in overall volume. This works out alright for the group and should play well live but at times can get in the way of smooth song transitions on Infinite Arms. Overall, fans should embrace this album, even with the slightly more commercial feel to the record, as several songs like "Dilly" have a increased slick pop sound to them then anything the band has released before. It is a record that will take several listens to appreciate but with the lush opener "Factory", a foot tapper of a single in "Compliments" and more then several solid mid-tempo numbers Infinite Arms still showcases what all the hype is about and puts Band Of Horses on a new path, that I am sure will produce success.

Key Tracks: "Compliments", "Blue Beard", "NW Apt."

Bands With Similar Fire:
My Morning Jacket
Built To Spill
Monsters Of Folk

Band Of Horses: Cease To Begin [Fire Note Review 10/9/07]

Official Band Of Horses Website
Band Of Horses MySpace
Band Of Horses Facebook
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Audra Mae: The Happiest Lamb

Audra Mae
The Happiest Lamb
SideOneDummy Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Audra Mae is the grand niece of Judy Garland and has been performing in musical theater since she was 4. This lengthy experience shines here, as Mae sounds like a seasoned veteran on her debut album The Happiest Lamb, that grabs your ear like a Neko Case, Jenny Lewis or Patsy Cline. The album is an excellent offering of sultry jazz folk that is lead by Audra Mae's flawless vocals. The Happiest Lamb could benefit from a few more upbeat numbers but its timeless appeal carries it well beyond just listening once, as Audra Mae is a new talent that could make some noise for years to come!

Key Track: "Lightning In A Bottle"

Band With Similar Fire: Neko Case

Audra Mae: Haunt [EP] [Fire Note Review 11/16/09]

Audra Mae MySpace
Audra Mae Facebook
SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Horse Feathers: Thistled Spring

Horse Feathers
Thistled Spring
Kill Rock Stars [2010]









 Fire Note Says: Album number three showcases a very confident Horse Feathers!

Album Review:
Portland, Ore., folk outfit Horse Feathers are back with their third album Thistled Spring and it challenges their sophomore effort House With No Home [2008] to be their best. Justin Ringle just has one of those voices which oozes passion for his cause, as he can tell a story with both an upbeat outlook and a restrained anguish that makes the listener hold onto each dangling note. Thistled Spring expands on the groups overall sound, as it contains a much more textured instrument approach, while keeping the "at the right moment" lush harmonies in tact. Lyrically, you couldn't ask for much more, as Ringle explores broken relationships, distance, waiting and pain but ties it all together with the season as Thistled Spring's songs consistently emerge out of the darkness into the day light. At the end of the record, your outlook, as well as Ringle's, is much better and you will want to experience Thistled Spring again. It is an album that is full of intimate quiet moments of space that explode with memorable harmonic charm and never let the record dull. Horse Feathers flex their musical experience here on Thistled Spring and give you the most confident album of their career!

Key Tracks: "Belly Of June", "Vernonia Blues", "This Bed"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Fleet Foxes
Bon Iver
Gomez

Horse Feathers: House With No Home [Fire Note Review 10/22/08]

Horse Feathers MySpace
Horse Feathers Facebook
Kill Rock Stars

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Get Up Kids: Simple Science [EP]

The Get Up Kids
Simple Science [EP]
Self-Released [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
I remember reading about The Get Up Kids throwing in the towel and just being disappointed. They were always a band that I thought just "got it". Their style of emo punk was what everyone wanted to sound like, their tracks were always catchy and you always felt like the band gave it their all. On their first recording in six years, the Simple Science EP picks up like it is 1999 again, as these four songs could fit in on the bands now classic record Something To Write Home About [1999]. What makes The Get Up Kids return here so great is that the songs were written spontaneously and recorded mostly live to 2" tape. Almost no computer technology was used, which gives Simple Science an old school punk vibe that makes it an absolute winner and a welcome back to the party for The Get Up Kids. Can't wait for a full length!

Key Track: "Your Pretty Pretty Things"

Band With Similar Fire: Promise Ring

Official Get Up Kids Website
Get Up Kids MySpace
Get Up Kids Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Sadies: Darker Circles

The Sadies
Darker Circles
Yep Roc Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: One of their best!

Album Review:
If it ain't broken don't fix it should be the motto for Toronto's Sadies on their new album Darker Circles. It has been three years since their excellent New Seasons [2007] record and once again they snag Jayhawk Gary Louris to produce Darker Circles to give it a very organic grassroots traditional vibe, while still sparking in a very modern fashion. What makes this album so listenable is that it pulls from all of The Sadies solid components from the past and blends them into a fresh outing of rock, country, psychedelic and surf. The band is completely energized on the lush melodic opener "Another Year Again", while "Postcards" shows off a little barn stomp in the boys and songs like "Whispering Circles" and "Idle Tomorrows" just highlight The Sadies tight musicianship and vocal unity that make them memorable. Darker Circles is a perfect 36 minutes, as each of the eleven songs state their point and end but stay with you long after concluding. This contained song structure is standard for most Sadies records but the little tweaks of instruments and focused vocal support not only makes Darker Circles a stellar album but makes repeat listens an absolute!

Key Tracks: "Another Year Again", "Tell Her What I Said", "Postcards"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Avett Brothers
Fleet Foxes
Drive-By Truckers

The Sadies: New Seasons [Fire Note Review 10/10/07]

Official Sadies Website
The Sadies MySpace
The Sadies Facebook
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony