Meursault: All Creatures Will Make Merry

Meursault
All Creatures Will Make Merry
Song, By Toad Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Meursault will hold your thoughts for a full 45 minutes!

Album Review:
Ever since the disappearance of Neutral Milk Hotel, everyone in the indie scene has quietly been looking for the next Hotel. Well seven-piece Edinburgh band Meursault might be up for the throne with their distant yet front porch vibe. The group offers a very folkish hush 45 minutes of music that has banjo solos, low drum beats and plenty of strings. The songs are driven by the warm intensity of frontman Neil Pennycook, that always places his voice on the fringe of the music and can launch out at any moment. He has the ability to make you feel his misery, while encouraging you to join in on the big fruitful choruses. It is this combo of tranquil meets storm, which makes Meursault so engaging and the one component that brings All Creatures Will Make Merry to the forefront as an album that only gets better with every spin!

Key Tracks: "Crank Resolutions", "Weather", "Song For Martin Kippenberger"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Twilight Sad
Neutral Milk Hotel
Lullaby For The Working Class

Meursault MySpace
Meursault Facebook
Song, By Toad Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Devo: Something For Everybody

Devo
Something For Everybody
Warner Bros Records [2010]

Fire Note Says: A fun flash back to yesteryear!

Album Review:

Something For Everybody finds Devo making a return to the scene with all new material that may not bring back their hey day but it is a solid outing that should please longtime fans with its upbeat pulse and traditional herky jerky song structures. The band will never win awards for strong lyrical content but Something For Everybody is light years ahead of their last record released in 1990 and better then anything the band has released since 1981. All of their staple components are present with driving synths, robotic vocal styles and foot tapping beats. The success found here is that Devo absolutely don't take them selves serious, which only drives the records confidence because Devo are just doing what they know how. They are nerdy, they are sarcastic, and they are back to give you a good time!

Key Tracks: "Step Up", "No Place Like Home", "Fresh"

Bands With Similar Fire:

The Method Actors

Datarock

MGMT

Official Devo Website

Devo MySpace

Devo Facebook

Warner Bros. Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Hoodoo Gurus: Purity Of Essence

Hoodoo Gurus
Purity Of Essence
Hoodoo Gurus Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
If you have never listened to the garage rock 60's pop classic Mars Needs Guitars! [1985] from the Hoodoo Gurus I suggest you seek it out now. With that knowledge in hand, the Hoodoo Gurus new long player Purity Of Essence is much easier to understand. This outing brings back the visceral edge they had on their critically hailed records and plays fast, as the Hoodoo's throw caution to the wind. The record highlights the groups talent and is musically sound all the way through. The album runs a bit long, as it pushes over an hour and gives you 16 songs. Sure more music for everyone but had this record been paired down to 12 tracks it would have been simply killer with no filler. Overall, you can't ask more from these guys as Purity Of Essence showcases the spark that made them special and is another good record in their catalog.

Key Track: "Crackin' Up"

Band With Similar Fire: The Hold Steady

Official Hoodoo Gurus Website
Hoodoo Gurus MySpace
Hoodoo Gurus Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Chemical Brothers: Further

The Chemical Brothers
Further
Astralwerks Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: The Chemical Brothers return to their early roots!

Album Review:
Further represents the way it was supposed to be. Let's face it - Electronic music was never going to be the next big thing but The Chemical Brothers were right there and showed us what could be done with the genre in and out. Sure, it never caught on to the masses but I can still crank out tunes from Dig Your Own Hole [1997] and they sound as fresh today as they did then. Fast forward to 2010 and the British duo give us their seventh studio album that possesses more electronic dazzle then their last two records combined. It also is one of The Chemical Brothers most organic pieces of work, as there are no tricks, no guest vocalists and just plenty of grooving vibes. The vocals that are here fade in and then fade out, as they provide more of a secondary structure for the tracks. Opening track "Snow" is completely beatless, which is just an interesting and entertaining listen and the twelve minute "Escape Velocity" is a wild space ride all on its own. This release won't be for everyone because this is a straight up Electronica record but for anyone that was there in the beginning and remembers The Chemical Brothers excellent debut Exit Planet Dust [1995], Further should remind you of why we cared in the first place!

Key Tracks: "Escape Velocity", "Snow", "Swoon"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Daft Punk
Orbital
David Holmes

The Chemical Brothers: Brotherhood [Fire Note Review 10/6/08]

Official Chemical Brothers Website
The Chemical Brothers MySpace
The Chemical Brothers Facebook
Astralwerks Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Karen Elson: The Ghost Who Walks

Karen Elson
The Ghost Who Walks
Third Man/XL Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
You may or may not know that Karen Elson is not only a supermodel but Jack White's wife, so the pressure for her record to be superb was probably a little overbearing. The key here is that Elson can sing as she tackles these twelve folkish/bluegrass tracks with an extreme amount of confidence. Her vocals don't necessarily soar but they do command notice, as she takes complete control over the role of storyteller for these tales. The recording is great, the musical support is excellent and more than one track here gives you that chilling feeling that all good sirens can deliver. With her debut out of the way and a very strong supporting cast I think Elson will only get better!

Key Track: "The Ghost Who Walks"

Band With Similar Fire: Neko Case

Official Karen Elson Website
Karen Elson MySpace
Karen Elson Facebook
Third Man Records
XL Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Wolf Parade: Expo 86

Wolf Parade

Expo 86

Sub Pop Records [2010]

Fire Note Says: Third record really emphasizes that Wolf Parade are a real band!

Album Review:
Not many times do I really dig a record right from the package but that was my immediate reaction to the third LP from Wolf Parade titled Expo 86. For whatever reason I launched this album over my loud speakers instead of my typical reviewing headphones and I was taken back by how the album poured out of my speakers. The talented duo of Spencer Krug and Dan Broeckner have made an even more dense "rock" record here that seems to musically explode around every corner. The group once again splits the songwriting duties almost in half with Krug penning six to Broeckner's five, as each guy is an excellent storyteller. On At Mount Zoomer [2008] I think this back n forth writing at times disturbed the cohesiveness but it is not an issue here, as each track blends well right into the next. The one element that may have helped to achieve this cohesive rock out vibe is that the group recorded Expo 86 live to tape, which made the band look at each other and work it out. This process puts all members on alert and also contributes to the good urgency sound that runs throughout the record. When you have a group like Wolf Parade that has each of its members having great responsibilities outside the unit, it would be easy for them to take the easy road and crank out another album over the Internet but you can hear how every note, every backing vocal, every drum strike and every tempo change was heavily thought out to get this top-notch result that is Expo 86. Wolf Parade is one of those bands that will be hard pressed to release a clunker due to sheer talent and Expo 86 just showcases the groups respect and passion for music that we are lucky enough that they want to share with everyone!

Key Tracks: "What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had To Go This Way)", "Pobody's Nerfect", "Yulia"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Arcade Fire
Spoon
Broken Social Scene

Handsome Furs: Face Control [Fire Note Review 3/10/09]
Wolf Parade: At Mount Zoomer [Fire Note Review 7/4/08]
Swan Lake: Beast Moans [Fire Note Review 1/17/07]

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

Wolf Parade MySpace

Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Peter Case: Wig!

Peter Case
Wig!
Yep Roc Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Last year Peter Case had a near fatal heart scare that required immediate open heart surgery and also lots of recoup time. Well that provided the minutes to write Wig! but Case also spent time working on reissues of his earlier rock bands The Plimsouls and The Nerves, which steered Case back to his roots. The result is a dirty blues rock n roll record that reminds us of why Peter Case is an indie icon. This album finds Case enjoying the rougher edgier sound of his past and I am sure it will extend his life expectancy, as Wig! is the most comfortable and unrestricted Case has sounded in years!

Key Track: "Dig What You're Putting Down"

Band With Similar Fire: Billy Bragg

Official Peter Case Website
Peter Case MySpace
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Maps & Atlases: Perch Patchwork

Maps & Atlases
Perch Patchwork
Barsuk Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Debut full-length from Maps & Atlases expands on previous EP ideas to form their own brand of indie-folk!

Album Review:
Most people get scared when they hear the term "art rock" used to describe a band. It really can mean everything from crazy noise to crickets chirping but in the case of the full length debut from Chicago's Maps & Atlases, the term can be used to simply label the meticulous style and organic thickness their music possesses. Especially as Perch Patchwork is easily their most accessible piece of work to date that expands on their previous ideas captured on EPs and develops them further by adding pop vocal moments that have pinicle melodies which turn into the glue that holds the tracks together perfectly. Perch Patchwork not only brings the bands synchronized harmonies to the forefront but also delivers a multitude of instruments that blend a nice backdrop to the strong songwriting. The instrumentation accomplishes one unified sound while emphasizing the similarities between an array of strings, horns, percussion, and even a variety of toy instruments. The record was produced by Jason Cupp (The Elected, Nurses), drops next week and is just a nice sounding indie album to settle down with - over and over!

Key Tracks: "Living Decorations", "The Charm", "Israeli Caves"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Fleet Foxes
TV On The Radio
Chet

Official Maps & Atlases Website
Maps & Atlases MySpace
Maps & Atlases Facebook
Barsuk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Nora Jane Struthers: Nora Jane Struthers

Nora Jane Struthers
Nora Jane Struthers
Blue Pig Music [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Nora Jane Struthers debut will instantly strike your traditional Americana chord with her smooth likable vocals and spot on harmonies. Sure the 26 year old has an old soul but her album still sounds remarkably fresh, even though it follows a very traditional bluegrass style. She has been gaining momentum in Nashville and this record was produced by Brent Truitt (Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Dixie Chicks), that seems like it was the perfect choice. She is an excellent storyteller and it should not surprise you that Struthers used to be an English literature teacher in Brooklyn. It is a combination of all these elements that make Nora Jane Struthers so engaging, so if you are looking for a change of pace then this record for sure will fill your void!

Key Track: "Look Out On The Mountain"

Band With Similar Fire: Laura Cantrell

Official Nora Jane Struthers Website
Nora Jane Struthers MySpace
Nora Jane Struthers Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers: Mojo

Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers
Mojo
Reprise Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: The jammier side of Petty.

Album Review:
When you get to a point in your career like Tom Petty, you can pretty much do what you damn well please. When you have the Heartbreakers as your band, you can definitely do what you want with no questions asked. Those statements basically describe Mojo, as it was designed so that the listener gets to hear what Petty hears when he is in the studio with The Heartbreakers. Mojo fills that order, as it sonically sounds stupendous and is absolutely musically tight around every grinding chord, skin beat, pumping bass and Petty's smooth bluesy delivery. Mojo is an album to let just roll, as it has some of the most lengthy tracks we have seen from Petty in awhile and offers a whopping total of 15 tracks. It is an album that simply put: lets The Heartbreakers shine. This is the first record since 2002 for the guys and Mojo sounds like they never took a break as their chemistry is unbreakable. There will be many fans that complain about all the blues on Mojo because it is not the classic rock they are used to. I also could imagine some of the execs sitting at Reprise discussing the same thing as Mojo really doesn't have much in the singles category. I can't say that I will argue that position because I too like to hear Petty and boys crank out a memorable tune but it is also nice to hear him try something else and guess what? It is solid. Sure it may not be your go to Petty record, as Mojo is an undertaking and works better in smaller doses. It is another solid album in a storied career that Petty can be proud of still should work in nicely with all of those classic recordings!

Key Tracks: "First Flash Of Freedom", "I Should Have Known It", "Don't Pull Me Over"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Bob Dylan
Dire Straits
Bruce Springsteen

Official Tom Petty Website
Tom Petty MySpace
Tom Petty Facebook
Reprise Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Off With Their Heads: In Desolation

Off With Their Heads
In Desolation
Epitaph Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
I can usually count on one punk rock record a year taking over my player and contending for a spot on The Fire Note Top 50. Well - I think I found the 2010 record. It is none other then the sophomore album from the raw punk rock of Minneapolis' Off With Their Heads. In Desolation is a non-stop ride for a perfect 34 minutes and will have you fist pumping along with every catchy track. What makes this record so solid is that the lead and commanding vocal from Ryan Young sells In Desolation and with his vocally rugged delivery he can strike a chord with so many. It is the athematic action found here combined with the energy of the band that makes Off With Their Heads and In Desolation a better spin every time. If any group can pull punk-rock out of the ashes then Off With Their Heads has just released the record to do it with, as In Desolation, potentially and hopefully will expand well past the current smaller state of punk rock followers.

Key Track: "Trying To Breathe"

Band With Similar Fire: Face To Face

Off With Their Heads MySpace
Off With Their Heads Facebook
Epitaph Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Marah: Life Is A Problem

Marah
Life Is A Problem
Valley Farm Songs [2010]









Fire Note Says: Marah changes lineup but still offers honest rock n' roll on Life Is A Problem.

Album Review:
With the absence of longtime collaborator and brother Serge Bielanko plus replacing the rhythm section, this Marah record already comes out of the gate with a different attitude. The interesting thing for fans is that, remaining bro, Dave Bielanko keeps things on Life Is A Problem fairly simple and straightforward, while offering another 10 tracks of gritty rock n roll. With Serge not in the picture it does open the door to use another longtime member in the band Christine Smith to help out with writing and producing. This change also offers a large front door for Smith's vocals and on more then one track she chimes in equally with a shadowing voice that helps sell the honesty of the tracks. With that said, Life Is A Problem has a very mid-tempo pace that could have used a little help from some more upbeat type songs. Marah is a band that has never been able to catch up with their most critically hailed record Kids In Philly [2000] and for whatever reason have never be able to recreate that perfect blend of Americana, rock and pop. You won't find it here either but Life Is A Problem does change up some of Marah's formulas, as songs combine their style of Americana with a little Celtic punk. This new approach might just be the catalyst to put Marah back on the map - even if Life Is A Problem is only the start.

Key Tracks: "Within The Spirit Sagging", "High Water", "Valley Farm Song"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Jesse Malin & The St. Marks Social
The Replacements
Butch Walker

Marah: Angels Of Destruction! [Fire Note Review 1/28/08]

Official Marah Website
Marah MySpace
Marah Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Stars: The Five Ghosts

Stars
The Five Ghosts
Vagrant Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Stars return with another winner!

Album Review:
When you examine the past 10 years of work from Canada's Stars, you begin to realize that the group has released some of the most consistent indie pop out there. On the groups fifth full length The Five Ghosts - they release some of there best collection of songs yet. Not only are the songs engaging but you can tell that Stars were completely serious about making a great record. It all starts with the writing process as The Five Ghosts was written by all five members, Amy Millan, Evan Cranley, Torquil Campbell, Patty McGee and Chris Seligman, while it also features returning producer Tom McFall, who recorded their breakthrough, Set Yourself On Fire [2005]. This combination already is a big positive for the record but the sound itself will wake up longtime fans with its heavy synth vibe. This gives The Five Ghosts a beating pulse that mixes perfectly with its tight melodies, the dueling vocals of Campbell and Millan and the extremely memorable choruses. Stars have used The Five Ghosts to flex their indie pop muscle and it is a record that holds up well to anything else in their critically hailed catalog.

Key Tracks: "Fixed", "The Passenger", "Wasted Daylight"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Rosebuds
Death Cab For Cutie
The New Pornographers

Official Stars Website
Stars MySpace
Stars Facebook
Vagrant Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

How To Destroy Angels: How To Destroy Angels [EP]

How To Destroy Angels
How To Destroy Angels [EP]
The Null Corporation [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
This is the first release from Trent Reznor since NIN was put on indefinite hiatus. The big difference with How To Destroy Angels is that Reznor's wife and ex-West Indian singer Mariqueen Maandig takes over the lead vocal duties. The disappointing part about this record is not really the music, as it is more about Reznor not taking this project to a different musical spectrum with a bit more risk. There is no question that Maandig can sing nor that Reznor can sequence some hard hitting beats but can How To Destroy Angels move beyond what Trent has already accomplished and really give us something new and fresh on a full length - we hope so because this release still shows promise!

*Cool note on this release is that Rezner has made the entire EP available for free via download from their website - snatch it now while you can!

Key Track: "BBB"

Band With Similar Fire: Nine Inch Nails

Official How To Destroy Angels Website
How To Destroy Angels MySpace
How To Destroy Angels Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Venice is Sinking: Sand & Lines

Venice is Sinking
Sand & Lines
One Percent Press [2010]









Fire Note Says: The Georgia Theatre will rise again with the help of this great release!

Album Review:
This record represents a great concept, is for a good cause and sounds stellar. What more do you need me to say about the third full length from Athens, GA, Venice is Sinking? Alright - I guess I can elaborate. It all started when the owner of the historic Georgia Theatre approached the band and asked them if they wanted to record live inside the Theatre. Of course they said yes and over four days in May of 08', Venice is Sinking got onstage with minimal production adornment, two mics and worked these 10 songs out. The songs themselves are a collection of new tracks, a few road-tested covers (songs by Galaxie 500, Dolly Parton, and Waylon Jennings), and several resurrected songs that didn’t fit on their first two LPs. The intimate setting fit the vibrant spacious style of the band and is just a record you can absorb. The sad part of this story is that the Georgia Theatre was gutted by a fire in June of 2009. With that said, this record even has more significance since this recording space can never be recreated. The upside of the story is that all proceeds from this record are going straight to the Georgia Theatre, as it has entered the rebuilding phase and hopes to be open by early 2011. For Venice is Sinking, Sand & Lines highlights their strengths, showcases that they are not afraid of new ideas, and places them in a whole new league of indie bands.

Donations are being accepted at the Georgia Theatre’s website: www.georgiatheatre.com

Key Tracks: "Bardstown Road", "Sidelights", "Tugboat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Cowboy Junkies
Arcade Fire
Luna

Venice is Sinking: AZAR [Fire Note Review 5/21/09]

Official Venice is Sinking Website
Venice is Sinking MySpace
Venice is Sinking Facebook
One Percent Press

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Oasis: Time Flies... 1994-2009

Oasis
Time Flies... 1994-2009
Big Brother/Columbia Records [2010]
(3CD/1DVD Box Set)








Fire Drill Review:
Alright - so Oasis broke up again and this retrospective captures all of the band's singles on 2 CDs unless you have the US version that does not include "Sunday Morning Call" because you get "Champagne Supernova". I guess the argument can be made about which continent the single was actually released on but this bait and switch really didn't alter the outcome for me. Sure the band released a hits collection already called Stop The Clocks in 2006 but were tracks picked out by Noel and didn't focus as much on singles. Regardless of your current Oasis feelings, the group has released some stellar tracks over the years and not many bands could come close to filling two albums worth of "single" material. The box set version of this comes with a DVD that holds all of their videos and a third CD capturing the last show Oasis played out live. At the end of the day, there are not any new tracks on the two disc set, unless you count "Lord Don't Slow Me Down" from the Oasis rock film of the same name, so it may not immediately appeal to fans but looking down the road this is the Oasis collection you would want spinning hence the all out 5 flame rating!

Key Track: "Lord Don't Slow Me Down"

Band With Similar Fire: The Beatles

Oasis: Dig Out Your Soul [Fire Note Review 10/9/08]

Official Oasis Website
Oasis MySpace
Oasis Facebook
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Tokyo Police Club: Champ

Tokyo Police Club
Champ
Mom & Pop Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: Sophomore record is a solid step forward for Tokyo Police Club.

Album Review:
Tokyo Police Club have been living with an intense amount of hype since their EP debuted in 2006. This hype has never really dwindled and actually probably hurt their first full-length Elephant Shell [2008] because the bar was already set impossibly high. Well, it has been four years and I believe people are still expecting greatness from Tokyo Police Club, so Champ is under just as much scrutiny as before. Good news for TPC is that Champ is an improvement in just about every department compared to Elephant Shell. You can tell the band purposely has slowed the tempo down here and let the songs evolve more naturally. Their original urgency is somewhat gone but it has been replaced with more intricate song structures, that find the tracks a bit longer and more reliance is placed on David Monk's vocals. This all makes for a more well-balanced album that still wraps up in 35 minutes and finds Tokyo Police Club coming closer then ever, to their originally hype. Tokyo Police Club are still a young talented band that is worth all the hoopla, as their sound never gets old and Champ only finds them tapping into their creative side. With a little more time and expanding on several ideas here, Tokyo Police Club could still easily have that masterpiece record in them!

Key Tracks: "Breakneck Speed", "Big Difference", "Favourite Food"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Spoon
Hot Hot Heat
The Strokes

Tokyo Police Club: Elephant Shell [Fire Note Review 5/2/08]
Tokyo Police Club: A Lesson In Crime EP [Fire Note Review 12/4/06]

Official Tokyo Police Club Website
Tokyo Police Club MySpace
Tokyo Police Club Facebook
Mom & Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Stone Temple Pilots: Stone Temple Pilots

Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots
Atlantic Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
STP rolled back onto the scene here recently and their self titled record proves that it was not just some attempt at making a quick buck doing tours. Even though the album does not succeed on every track, you still get at least four or five songs that could catch on in the right setting and remind you of what made Stone Temple Pilots rock radio kings. STP bring it all back with heavy guitar riffs, Weiland's recognizable wail and strategically placed hooks to keep the listener's attention. Of course radio is completely different now and there will probably be less ears for this release but that doesn't mean the record still does not rock out. Overall, STP is a no frills - straight up rock n roll affair that will bring the long time followers back into the fold, while attracting a whole new set of STP heads. Sure it may not totally represent their heyday but a true effort exists here, so don't be afraid to check it out and live up the nostalgia!

Key Track: "Cinnamon"

Band With Similar Fire: Foo Fighters

Official Stone Temple Pilots Website
Stone Temple Pilots MySpace
Stone Temple Pilots Facebook
Atlantic Records

-Reivewed by Christopoher Anthony

The Purrs: Tearing Down Paisley Garden

The Purrs
Tearing Down Paisley Garden
Self-Released [2010]









Fire Note Says: The Purrs find the right groove again on their newly released mini-album!

Album Review:
Tearing Down Paisley Garden is a seven song mini-album from Seattle's The Purrs that essentially will hold over fans, as the group continues to work on their next full-length recording. That does not mean that this release is not worthy of your attention because it follows the style and groove of last year's excellent Amused, Confused & More Bad News [2009]. The band offers up several covers like the opening track "Only Dreaming", which was originally an 80's hit by Red Lorry, Yellow Lorry and "I Move Around" from legendary country singer Lee Hazlewood. Both are entertaining but the real fun is on The Purrs originals, as the band newly recorded live favorite "Just A Little More", which is one of the best tracks they have released with its confident drone swagger of a chorus line and the alternate backing vocals, that let you join in as the song builds in intensity. That urgency is what makes a Purrs release stick as Tearing Down Paisley Garden has an undertone of grit, just the right amount of reverb and plenty of smoldering hooks to take you on their psych-rock ride journey and not really care if you ever return!

Key Tracks: "Just A Little More", "Always Something In My Way", "I'm Slipping"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Jesus And Mary Chain
Lou Reed
Lab Partners

The Purrs: Amused, Confused & More Bad News [Fire Note Review 8/18/09]
The Purrs: The Chemistry That Keeps Us Together [Fire Note Review 11/9/07]
The Purrs: The Purrs [Fire Note Review 9/15/06]

Official Purrs Website
The Purrs MySpace
The Purrs Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Fjord Rowboat: Under Cover Of Brightness

Fjord Rowboat
Under Cover Of Brightness
Roxton Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Toronto band Fjord Rowboat play a style of shoegaze-tinged rock on their sophomore record Under Cover Of Brightness that embraces both the post-punk styles of Joy Division and the soundscape tunefulness of Catherine Wheel. It is easy to compare their musical slickness to others like early Interpol or Echo but Fjord Rowboat separates themselves as this record really captures the essence of what made those bands great. Under Cover Of Brightness is moody, dark, grinding and yet dreamy and sprawling, which connects the listener to the past while propelling them into the future. Fjord Rowboat have made a solid album that stands up strongly to repeat plays and has a timelessness factor to it that could easily creep the record into one of our favorites for the year!

Key Track: "Underwater Hero"

Band With Similar Fire: Interpol

Official Fjord Rowboat Website
Fjord Rowboat MySpace
Fjord Rowboat Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Pernice Brothers: Goodbye, Killer

Pernice Brothers
Goodbye, Killer
Ashmont Records [2010]









Fire Note Says: It has been four years but the Pernice Brothers still show that consistent songwriting makes all the difference.

Album Review:
Goodbye, Killer marks the end of a four year hiatus for the pop folk group Pernice Brothers. The album is another solid collection of likable tracks that makes you feel like they never went away. Now it is not like Joe Pernice was just sitting around for the last four years, as he spent time writing a novel (It Feels So Good When I Stop [2009]), recording a soundtrack of covers for the novel, and going out on a solo book/music tour. With all of that over it is back to basics here as Goodbye, Killer offers some of the most laid back music Pernice has ever released. Most of the music has a minimalist approach, as Pernice brought in a small group of musicians to help out which includes his brother Bob, drummer Ric Menck (Matthew Sweet, Velvet Crush), and guitarist James Walbourne (Pretenders). This reduction of noise is only somewhat noticeable as Goodbye, Killer does not have any big orchestrated moments or looming harmonies compared to Pernice albums of the past. Of course that changes things a bit here, as there aren't quite as many tracks that instantly will stick with you and might lose some with the mostly consistent mid-tempo pace. For others, this relaxed flow will work as Goodbye, Killer is still just 10 well written songs in 32 minutes that musically sounds great, has a solid replay value and is a nice welcome back for the Pernice Brothers to the indie scene!

Key Tracks: "The Great Depression", "Bechamel", "Something For You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Holopaw
Giant Sand
Honeydogs

Official Perncie Brothers Website
Pernice Brothers MySpace
Pernice Brothers Facebook
Ashmont Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Delta Spirit: History From Below

Delta Spirit
History From Below
Rounder Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
Getting a break to record History From Below was a monumental task for San Diego band Delta Spirit, as they have played over 290 shows in the past two years supporting their excellent debut Ode To Sunshine [2008]. This new record finds the band reducing their members from five to four but basically continues the similar sound found on their debut. The album is lacking some of the immediate punch power that the debut possessed but in most circumstances makes up for it with memorable layered harmonies and well thought out songwriting. History From Below will definitely not lose any fans but may be more of a challenge to adore, as these tracks come off a bit more relaxed and need more time to absorb. What History From Below has going for it, is that the songs here were made for the live stage and still represent a solid sophomore record that I can get behind, as it gets better after every spin!

Key Track: "Vivian"

Band With Similar Fire: Fleet Foxes

Delta Spirit: Ode To Sunshine [Fire Note Review 8/22/08]

Official Delta Spirit Website
Delta Spirit MySpace
Delta Spirit Facebook
Rounder Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Robert Pollard: Moses On A Snail

Robert Pollard
Moses On A Snail
Guided By Voices Inc. [2010]









Fire Note Says: A more reflective Pollard just keeps his creative streak and noteworthy solo releases rolling on!

Album Review:
Lately it has been a bit easier to keep up with Robert Pollard and musically separate his work into the three camps of solo, Boston Spaceships and Circus Devils. The other outlets for Pollard allow an album like Moses On A Snail to be released, as it probably compares to some of his most mature work to date. Where the Spaceships allow him to rock out and the Devils always succeed in twisting noise, Pollard's third avenue under his own name lets his songwriting be the focus. This is the true backbone on Moses On A Snail, as the record is more reflective and downbeat - yet just as melodic, catchy and memorable as some of his outright rockers. It is the sort of record you would expect a veteran 52 year old artist to create at this point in his career, as you can tell Pollard is in complete control and simply relaxed composing these 12 tracks with the instrument help from the consistent Todd Tobias. Even the album's cover art has Bob staring out over water, which perfectly captures the overall tone presented here compared to Pollard's standard collage work we have come accustomed to. By no means does any of this make Moses On A Snail a yawner, as it has plenty of quick paced 2 minute tracks and slow burning numbers that each posses their own rock anthems. With tracks like the poppy foot tapping "Arrows And Balloons" and the soaring 5 minute closing title track, Moses On A Snail represents another solid offering from Pollard and should be well received from critics and fans alike!

Key Tracks: "Each Is Good In His Own House", "Moses On A Snail", "Arrows And Balloons"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Paul Weller
Bob Mould
David Bowie

Robert Pollard: We All Got Out Of The Army [Fire Note Review 2/10/10]
Robert Pollard: Silk Rotor 7" [Fire Note Review 2/10/10]
Boston Spaceships: Licking Stamps And Drinking Shitty Coffee [Fire Note Review 12/10/09]
Guided By Voices: Suitcase 3 (Up We Go Now) [Fire Note Review 11/9/09]
Robert Pollard: Elephant Jokes [Fire Note Review 8/6/09]
Robert Pollard: The Crawling Distance [Fire Note Review 1/16/09]
Robert Pollard: The Butler Stands For All Of Us 7" [Fire Note Review 11/11/08]
Robert Pollard: Robert Pollard Is Off To Business [Fire Note Review 6/16/08]
Robert Pollard: Superman Was A Rocker [Fire Note Review 2/12/08]
Robert Pollard: Coast To Coast/Gargoyle [Fire Note Review 10/16/07]
Robert Pollard: Silverfish Trivia EP [Fire Note Review 4/23/07]
Robert Pollard: Normal Happiness [Fire Note Review 10/12/06]
Robert Pollard: From A Compound Eye [Fire Note Review 4/19/06]

Official Robert Pollard Website
Robert Pollard MySpace
Robert Pollard Facebook
GBV Inc. Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Villagers: Becoming A Jackal

Villagers
Becoming A Jackal
Domino Records [2010]









Fire Drill Review:
You already know a band is a big deal if they can open for Neil Young before their full length is even released. Dublin's Villagers is basically a one man show, as Conor J. O'Brien plays most of the instruments and has a very folk-rock sound similar to Bright Eyes. O'Brien has all the right stuff, as Becoming A Jackal is completely engaging and has a nice balance of tempos and strong singing/songwriting throughout. This kind of debut and slow building hype really only leaves the question of what Villagers will do next, as Becoming A Jackal is definitely worth checking out and stands up very well to repeat listens!

Key Track: "Becoming A Jackal"

Band With Similar Fire: Bright Eyes

Official Villagers Website
Villagers MySpace
Villagers Facebook
Domino Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Gaslight Anthem: American Slang

The Gaslight Anthem

American Slang

SideOneDummy Records [2010]

Fire Note Says: No question about it - The Gaslight Anthem are the modern Springsteen!

Album Review:
The critics praise that showered The '59 Sound [2008] had to really put the pressure on The Gaslight Anthem to equal or surpass its greatness with their third long player American Slang due out next week. The band might not quite have achieved that lofty goal but American Slang comes pretty damn close. The record has 10 tightly packaged tracks that all have the pieces for success and instead of hiding from the Springsteen comparisons, lead singer Brian Fallon and the band embrace it. This style once again starts at the front, as Fallon has a confidence in his voice that transcends emotion, swagger and leadership just like the Boss. American Slang is full of anthems that cover the lost vitality of youth and will easily connect with their wide spread aged audience and basically tells you to get over your glory days of the past and worry about today. Most of the albums tracks are toe tappers with the exception of the excellent four minute ballad-esque type closer "We Did It When We Were Young". American Slang has everything that fans will want from The Gaslight Anthem with its layered background harmonies and band call outs behind Fallon's commanding vocals. The album is just thirty-four minutes and is perfect for repeat plays, as it just gets more engaging with every listen. American Slang may not be their masterpiece yet but it affirms that The '59 Sound was no fluke and honestly we can't wait to hear what they do next!

Key Tracks: "Bring It On", "American Slang", "Old Haunts"

Bands With Similar Fire:

Social Distortion
The Replacements
The Clash

The Gaslight Anthem: The '59 Sound [Fire Note Review 8/15/08]

Official Gaslight Anthem Website

The Gaslight Anthem MySpace

The Gaslight Anthem Facebook

SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony