The Real McKenzies: Westwinds

The Real McKenzies
Westwinds
Fat Wreck Chords [2012]









Fire Note Says: The Real McKenzies show off their 20 year experience on the entertaining Westwinds!

Album Review:
Really good Celtic punk is hard to come by these days but Vancouver, British Columbia based band The Real McKenzies have been at it since 1992 and Westwinds is another fine example of how the genre is alive and well. There is no real change in formula on Westwinds as the bagpipes come at you in full force and lead singer Paul McKenzie has never sounded better.

Right from the opening track "The Tempest" you get a nice four minute traditional sounding anthem of a song that has all the members here shining with its slower tempo, pinpoint focus on specific instruments, McKenzie singing a cappella and ringing harmonies. This song sets the tone of Westwinds before track two "Fool's Road" launches into a speed punk and lets loose the other side of The Real McKenzies.

The rest of Westwinds follows this same Celtic punk formula with solid twists like how "My Luck Is So Bad" is a grab your friend, slosh some beer around and sing together type of song while "The Bluenose" is a strong and gritty track that relies a bit more on the guitar than the bagpipe.

All 13 tracks here have this same confident swagger even though there is not anything on Westwinds that you probably have not heard before. That is how Westwinds succeeds because the seasoned status of The Real McKenzies truly shines here and makes their music sound as fresh today as when The Pogues brought the scene to the masses in 1982!

Key Tracks: "The Tempest", "The Bluenose", "My Head Is Filled With Music"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Flogging Molly
The Pogues
Dropkick Murphys

The Real McKenzies Website
The Real McKenzies Facebook
Fat Wreck Chords

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Gentleman Jesse: Leaving Atlanta

Gentleman Jesse
Leaving Atlanta
Douchemaster Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Gentleman Jesse blows the doors off "sophomore slump" on Leaving Atlanta!

Album Review:
Has it really been nearly 4 years since Gentleman Jesse dropped his debut lp, Introducing Gentleman Jesse & His Men, seemingly from out of nowhere in the fall of 2008? That album was like a cool blast of fresh air during the incredibly hot fall of that year. Full of new wave chops and tunes to spare, that lp firmly entrenched itself near the top of my best of 2008 list. It’s fair to say that expectations are running high for his second album, Leaving Atlanta.

It’s easy to describe Gentleman Jesse as “New Wave” or Costello-ish, Introducing even paid homage to the album cover of This Year’s Model, but it’s much more than that, yes, Leaving Atlanta has the classic Stiff Records sound of Costello or Nick Lowe, but it also has roots firmly planted in west coast acts like The Flamin' Groovies, The Nerves, The Last, and The Beat. In fact, the first band I thought of when I first heard Introducing Gentlemen Jesse & His Men was the late great Exploding Hearts, whose Guitar Romantic [2003] was maybe the best modern new wave album until Jesse hit.

Plenty has been written already about the back story of Leaving Atlanta, the new record by Gentleman Jesse. Jesse was savagely beaten during a mugging and bedridden for a month. Couple this with a number of other tragedies to numerous friends of Jesse, and you have the thematic link that ties many of songs on this record together, indeed it probably seemed like an ideal time to be Leaving Atlanta, both physically and psychologically. But there’s more to this record than just back story, Leaving Atlanta is also a hopeful and upbeat record, full of songs of pain and love, heartbreak, despair, yet hopeful and ultimately about triumphing over personal demons.

Album opener “Eat Me Alive” sets the tone immediately, a dark fast paced aggressive tune which sums up exactly what Jesse is feeling. “This city is trying to eat me alive, but it’s as good a place as any to try and survive, if you keep your head down, you’ll push on through, and you just might make it to the other side”. “I’m Only Lonely” is a classic kiss-off song in the power pop tradition, only it’s a cut above, because it has that underlying grit underneath it. It’s more than just a pretty melody and a chorus, there’s real feeling there, and I actually believe it when Jesse says he’s done wasting time because “he’s only lonely when I’m around you”. If you did a blind taste test on “Careful What You Wish For”, I’d swear it was the Flamin’ Groovies circa Shake Some Action [1976] or Flamin’ Groovies Now [1978].

“We Got To Get Out of Here” closes the album both as the final track and as a personal mantra for Jesse. Jesse acknowledges that he doesn’t necessarily need to leave Atlanta physically, but metaphorically, he has to leave the pain and suffering of the last few years behind, and return to a healthier mindset. Leaving Atlanta finds Gentleman Jesse doing just that, and in the process we have another great album. Let’s hope for our sake and Gentleman Jesse’s, that we don’t need to wait another 4 years for an album this stunning!

Key Tracks: "Eat Me Alive", "I'm Only Alive", "We Got To Get Out Of Here"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Flamin' Groovies
Elvis Costello
The Exploding Hearts

Gentleman Jesse Facebook
Dourchemaster Records

-Reviewed by Kevin Poindexter

Yukon Blonde: Tiger Talk

Yukon Blonde
Tiger Talk
Dine Alone Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Sophomore record Tiger Talk shines bright from Canadian band Yukon Blonde!

Album Review:
You don't need to invite me twice when it comes to the type of power pop that this Vancouver, British Columbia quartet Yukon Blonde bring on their sophomore record Tiger Talk. The album is super engaging right from the opening strums of first track "My Girl" that then rolls into the Cars like catchiness found on "Radio" which is instantly memorable.

The band has evolved from their more Supertramp meets Fleet Foxes self-titled debut into a higher energy electric Cheap Trick dancing with The New Pornographers. This small dynamic shift has increased Yukon Blonde's profile as Tiger Talk is more hook friendly, tighter musically and has a much bigger chance to break out of Canada.

From the soaring guitar solo in "Oregon Shores" to the upbeat and punchy first single "Stairway" that everyone can identify with if you have ever been incredibly homesick, Tiger Talk shines in multiple places and points in the perfect direction for Yukon Blonde. This is a record that automatically leaves you with a good feeling upon its conclusion and will have you reaching for the repeat button quickly. Tiger Talk represents a sophomore record that moves beyond Yukon Blonde's debut and showcases them as a band at the calm before their storm!

Key Tracks: "My Girl", "Stairway", "Oregon Shores"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Cheap Trick
The New Pornographers
Sloan

Yukon Blonde: Yukon Blonde [Fire Note Review 3/23/10]

Yukon Blonde Website
Yukon Blonde Facebook
Dine Alone Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Brendan Kelly And The Wandering Birds: I'd Rather Die Than Live Forever

Brendan Kelly And The Wandering Birds
I'd Rather Die Than Live Forever
Red Scare Industries [2012]









Fire Note Says: Brendan Kelly gives a fresh take on rock n roll with his Wandering Birds!

Album Review:
Rock n Roll will never die and the debut from Lawrence Arms frontman Brendan Kelly and his Wandering Birds backs this statement up. "So bitch quit your fucking cryin'" is the last line on album opener "Suffer The Children, Come Unto Me" and highlights the carefree and confident attitude that carries I'd Rather Die Than Live Forever proudly from beginning to end and makes the entire record a worthy listen.

Now before too many fans start thinking this is just an extension of the Lawrence Arms catalog you will want to take notice that Kelly is more about the rock side of things here. Sure the album is influenced by his punk upbringing but tracks like "A Man With The Passion Of Tennessee Williams" show off a rocking country mix that sounds like a revved up Drive-By Truckers track and while a song like "What's A Boy To Do?" starts off with a punk wail, the track soon settles into a grinding rock number that would fit alongside anything in the Supersuckers catalog. It is the surefire delivery of Kelly that does not mess around and makes the album completely engaging.

I'd Rather Die Than Live Forever succeeds because not only does it charge up but it is a winner when Kelly shows off his talented other sides like on the twangy "Ramblin' Revisted" or the bouncy slow burner in "Dance Of The Doomed" that all highlight Kelly's controlled throaty vocals which give every song a swagger regardless of tempo.

For Lawrence Arms fans, picking up Brendan Kelly And The Wandering Birds should be a no brainer but this record also should grab a bunch of new listeners as it offers fresh new avenues around every chord, is not afraid of using a few expletives for punctuation and carries itself up high for its 33 minute running time while never getting old on repeat listens!

Key Tracks: "Suffer The Children, Come Unto Me", "Covered In Flies", "Ramblin' Revisited"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Social Distortion
The Hold Steady
Supersuckers

Brendan Kelly Website
Brendan Kelly Facebook
Red Scare Industries

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Tanlines: Mixed Emotions

Tanlines
Mixed Emotions
True Panther Sounds [2012]









Fire Note Says: Tanlines get in your head with their style of electro-pop.

Album Review:
Is this day and age coming out with an 80's style duo synth-pop seems both risky and genius. It is a lost genre that has been slowly getting some recent exposure but when you add in big choruses, note perfection, power pop moments and real emotion then you get something more that fits in 2012 which is what Tanlines debut Mixed Emotions brings to the table.

The duo of Eric Emm (vocals, guitar, keyboards) and Jesse Cohen (drums, keyboards, bass) make up Tanlines and this debut follows several high praised EPs from the electronic pop group. The album is fairly catchy in parts as it utilizes components that remind you of more classic artists like Gabriel and New Order with its emotional touching vocals and precision sonic beats. This connection makes tracks like "Brothers" and "Real Life" shine and instantly fit into a playlist.

Now the real challenge on Mixed Emotions for Tanlines is carrying the same energy and new ideas for a full 41 minutes. This is where the album struggles some as it reaches to keep your attention for its total span. Tanlines still give it a great shot as the record has a bit more strength in its second half and continually walks the line between being cool and too retro. Regardless of this internal battle, Tanlines will succeed because there are still a good number of tracks here that soar and should place this band on TV, commercials and your local college station. It will be interesting where Tanlines go next but I wouldn't be surprised if this Brooklyn duo doesn't blow up if they get the right break as certain songs here just won't leave your head.

Key Tracks: "Real Life", "Brothers", "Not The Same"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Peter Gabriel
Neon Indian
New Order

Tanlines Website
Tanlines Facebook
True Panther Sounds

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Lee Ranaldo: Between The Times And The Tides

Lee Ranaldo
Between The Times And The Tides
Matador Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: You can take Lee Ranaldo out of Sonic Youth but you can't take the SY out of Ranaldo.

Album Review:
It seems like Between The Times And The Tides has been long overdue as it represents a more upfront and spotlighted album from Sonic Youth guitarist Lee Ranaldo. In the past, he has released a multitude of material be it noise, acoustic items or collaborations but Between The Times is really his debut of song-oriented material with his name stamped on top. It is a record that probably could have went in a million different directions but I must say that it sticks close to the Sonic Youth vest with its grooving structures and twirling melodies.

For some this similar approach may lessen the appeal of Between The Times but I am a firm believer in doing what you know. Clearly without Gordon or Moore in the picture here the 10 tracks can't be mistaken for anyone else but Ranaldo. Another important element to this record succeeding is that Ranaldo has some pretty big named friends that lend a hand.

Between The Times was recorded with longstanding Sonic Youth producer John Agnello and features Wilco's Nels Cline guitar shining on every track. The rest of the lineup includes Sonic Youth's Steve Shelley on drums, Alan Licht on guitar, John Medeski on keyboards and cameos from original Sonic Youth drummer Bob Bert and Jim O'Rourke. All of this talent makes Between The Times a sharp listen.

I like the fact that opening track "Waiting On A Dream" could easily fit on any of the last several Sonic Youth records with its deep groove and confident attitude of Ranaldo especially when he quips "That's right" at the end of a chorus. Or how the 7 minute burner "Xtina As I Knew Her" showcases Medeski, Cline and Shelley all battling for supremacy on their selected instruments that equates one sonic melded piece that glows!

Between The Times And The Tides is a rock record - no more - no less. It stays in Ranaldo's comfort zone which works more times here than not. If you have been a long or even short time fan of Sonic Youth this is a record you will enjoy and honestly the talent from all that are involved, including Ranaldo, make this record worth every repeat play you give it!

Key Tracks: "Waiting On A Dream", "Xtina As I Knew Her", "Stranded"

Bands With Similar Fire:
J. Mascis
John Cage
Stephen Malkmus

Lee Ranaldo Website
Lee Ranaldo Facebook
Matador Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Shins: Port Of Morrow

The Shins
Port Of Morrow
Aural Apothecary/Columbia Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: The Shins return with a bigger sound that results in the same outcome - stellar!

Album Review:
Five years is a lifetime in the music scene but that is exactly how long it has been since the release of The Shins last record Wincing The Night Away [2007]. Of course, Shins leader James Mercer has kept himself busy with Danger Mouse and their Broken Bells project which released one album and one EP. This collaboration still has great potential but I feel it has not hit its stride yet as both releases were missing pieces to make them great.

So now let's turn to The Shins and make it clear that it is mostly James Mercer now. It really was before but now even more as he plays a good portion of the instruments along side his constant songwriting duties. He of course does not go totally alone as Port Of Morrow still is a band record and features the talent of Janet Weiss (Sleater-Kinney, Wild Flag), Joe Plummer (Modest Mouse), Richard Swift, Yuuki Matthews (Crystal Skulls), and Jessica Dobson (Beck's guitarist) with big time producer Greg Kurstin (Flaming Lips, Foster The People) co-chairing the helm with Mercer. This collective moves Port Of Morrow away from the more whimsical vibe on Wincing and expands The Shins sound into a more sonic and layered depth direction.

All of this leads us to why Port Of Morrow is so good. Songs like opening track "The Rifle's Spiral" and first single "Simple Song" have The Shins trademark jangle to them that is driven from Mercer's distinct falsetto. On other tracks, such as "Fall Of '82", The Shins now take on a somewhat classic rock sound that possesses that rich musical vibe that was referred to before. This beefed up production and warmth gives Port Of Morrow its timeless appeal and a solid new found structure for The Shins.

Traditionalist may still want to hear the sounds of The Shins first two records but the reality is that James Mercer is no longer that artist. Port Of Morrow not only moves The Shins sound into a bigger arena but also incorporates Broken Bells in its undertone as this record has a stellar stereo sound and really excels when you check it out with headphones. This is a record that deserves and gets better every time you spin it. Port Of Morrow benefits from extra listens to catch the multitude of layers but only needs one rotation to get hooked on The Shins - again!

Key Tracks: "Simple Song", "Bait And Switch", "Fall Of '82"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Built To Spill
Badfinger
Death Cab For Cutie

The Shins: Wincing The Night Away [Fire Note Review 1/23/07]

The Shins Website
The Shins Facebook
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Yellow Ostrich: Strange Land

Yellow Ostrich
Strange Land
Barsuk Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Yellow Ostrich offer a musically tighter sophomore record in Strange Land!

Album Review:
Probably one of the more overlooked records last year was Yellow Ostrich's debut Mistress. It was a loose and slightly experimental album that had simple song structures with plenty of catchy vocal manipulation. Their follow up, Strange Land, uses the same ideas but now employs a much more electric guitar sound and more focused song structures.

This tighter sound allows Yellow Ostrich to still be themselves vocally with all the creative ups and downs but aims to make more of an impression. This happens right away on opening track "Elephant King" as the track builds itself into a musical frenzy. This leads you into the guitar strumming on "Daughter" which fights the vocals from the background and creates an unique mix for the band that works in their favor.

"The Shakedown" represents Yellow Ostrich at its best as it incorporates an experimental angular song structure, strong percussion presence and features lead singer Alex Schaaf playing his vocals in, out and around the upbeat rocker. This type of progress has Yellow Ostrich sounding more confident than ever and makes Strange Land a quality sophomore outing. The band still may not have enough catchiness to their tracks to break big but fans of indie will get this record easily and should check Strange Land out.

Key Tracks: "Daughter", "The Shakedown", "Marathon Runner"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Vampire Weekend
The Police
Ra Ra Riot

Yellow Ostrich: Mistress [Fire Note Review 8/16/11]

Yellow Ostrich Website
Yellow Ostrich Facebook
Barsuk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Andrew Bird: Break It Yourself

Andrew Bird
Break It Yourself
Mom + Pop Music [2012]









Fire Note Says: Another entertaining listen from the talented Andrew Bird.

Album Review:
Break It Yourself marks the return of singer/songwriter Andrew Bird as he offers another crafting of indie pop that is full of intricate arrangements and detail to lyrics which come at you track after track. This record once again has a very passive mood that creates a situation where the listener needs to adjust their seat to make sure that don't miss anything as Bird draws you into his wordplay.

The same type of subject matter that you have come to expect from Bird occurs on Break It Yourself like nature on the first track "Desperation Breeds..." expresses his concerns for the dissipating bee colonies or deeper conversations like on "Lazy Projector" how Bird questions our memories origins. This type of heady material is the pulse that Break It Yourself lives off of and his accompanying support of music once again fits the bill.

From the plucking of strings pizzicato style to the full sounds of orchestral happenings while still getting in some whistling, Break It Yourself is definitely an Andrew Bird record but it also feels bigger than anything Bird has released before. The album features a solid duet with St. Vincent on "Lusitania" while having a fairly straightforward indie first single in the catchy "Eyeoneye" so there is plenty for everyone on Break It Yourself. Fans should completely enjoy this record but it still needs multiple listens in order to snag all the pieces. Break It Yourself once again is proof of Andrew Bird's talent and is another likable album in his ever growing catalog.

Key Tracks: "Eyeoneye", "Lusitania", "Hole In The Ocean Floor"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Sin Fang
M. Ward
Sufjan Stevens

Andrew Bird: Noble Beast [Fire Note Review 1/21/09]

Andrew Bird Website
Andrew Bird Facebook
Mom + Pop Music

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Jack White: Sixteen Saltines 7"

Jack White
Sixteen Saltines 7"
Columbia/Third Man Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Can't stop playing it loud!

Album Review:
"Sixteen Saltines" is the single that I have been waiting for from Jack White since The White Stripes became no more. Right from the opening guitar riffs and Jack's howl of "She's got stickers on her locker" you just know that this track has the ability to peel paint. The song is a pure 2:35 slice of rock and has attitude, power and a confidence in his solo material that only sets the stage for a stellar debut full length in April.

If that track wasn't enough the b-side here is a stellar cover of U2's "Love Is Blindness". White's version is crazy intense as it concludes with his guitar hitting max volume and his almost scream of the line "Won't you wrap the night - around me" hits the songs core.

Not sure if White's solo record Blunderbuss will hold up as a whole (although I am hoping) but so far the first two singles have been a home run while both being so different. If anyone every questioned if this is the right time for a Jack White solo record - I think the answer should be - Hell Yes!

Jack White: Love Interruption 7" [Fire Note Review 2/17/12]
The Dead Weather: Sea Of Cowards: Live At Third Man Records [Fire Note Review 10/14/10]
The Dead Weather: Sea Of Cowards [Fire Note Review 5/10/10]
The Dead Weather: Horehound [Fire Note Review 7/13/09]
The Dead Weather: Treat Me Like Your Mother [Single] [Fire Note Review 6/9/09]
The Raconteurs: Live In London [Fire Note Review 1/10/10]
The Raconteurs: Old Enough [ft. Ricky Skaggs And Ashley Monroe] (Single) [Fire Note Review 12/9/08]
The Raconteurs: Consolers Of The Lonely [Fire Note Review 3/28/08]
The Raconteurs: Broken Boy Soldiers [Fire Note Review 5/17/06]
The White Stripes: Under Great White Northern Lights B-Shows [Fire Note Review 7/6/10]
The White Stripes: Under Great White Northern Lights [Fire Note Review 3/17/10]
The White Stripes: Icky Thump [Fire Note Review 6/19/07]

Jack White Website
Jack White Facebook
Columbia Records
Third Man Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sharks: No Gods

Sharks
No Gods
Rise Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Debut from Sharks holds up to the high expectations!

Album Review:
No Gods is the debut from the UK band Sharks which we have had our ear waiting on since checking out their compilation of early singles released almost a year ago. The band does not disappoint here as they deliver their blend of classic English punk and modern indie rock with a full arsenal of melodies and hooks.

The smooth execution that the Sharks approach No Gods with is the winning element here as their confidence pours out of each track and can be heard with every line that singer James Murdock gives with a heartfelt exclamation point. When he sings "I watch the dogs at night from my window; They howl a loss of control, as do my habits" on rocker "Arcane Effigies" you feel his torment. On the catchy "Patient Spider", Murdock takes the simplicity of the feeling to destroy when an eight legged friend drops in on you with a bigger life picture that includes dealing with dependent figures and hurtful losses. These smart lyrics run throughout No Gods and when paired with call outs, horns, guitars and stick in your head hooks the album gets that much better.

It is still a wait and see if the Sharks can break out in the States but it will not be for a lack of quality on No Gods. The record is an addictive 37 minutes that gets more ingrained every time you spin it and with its stylistic approach Sharks not only bring 11 fresh modern songs but still pay a solid homage to the the 70 English punk music that has inspired their core and makes No Gods that much more memorable!

Key Tracks: "Patient Spider", "Arcane Effigies", "No Gods"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Clash
The Gaslight Anthem
The Vaccines

Sharks: The Joys Of Living 2008-2010 [Fire Note Review 5/3/11]

Sharks Website
Sharks Facebook
Rise Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Decemberists: We All Raise Our Voices To The Air (Live Songs 4.11-8.11)

The Decemberists
We All Raise Our Voices To The Air (Live Songs 4.11-8.11)
Capitol Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: New live double album represents The Decemberists well.

Album Review:
If you have never seen The Decemberists live then We All Raise Our Voices To The Air will be a true treat as it captures the energy, musicianship and playful nature of a band that continues to challenge their audience and themselves. This double album set covers their entire catalog of music and with 20 tracks at a little over 2 hours, The Decemberists nicely blend their full material into one cohesive listen.

There is something about the live show that can always make this happen as We All Raise clearly highlights how you can have "The Rake's Song" from the critically split The Hazards Of Love [2009] following "Leslie Ann Levine" from their 2002 debut Castaways And Cutouts and then have the band roll into the 16 minute "The Crane Wife 1, 2, and 3" with the new version forming a nice twist with the three Crane Wife tracks now in succession. It is this special type of track listing and uniqueness that makes We All Rise worth checking out for a new Decemberists experience.

At the end of the day, We All Raise is still a live record so if you were not a fan of The Decemberists before - you probably will still not be convinced after this undertaking. For fans though this record captures the essence of what the band offers live and is a nice piece that gives you Colin Meloy's humor as he introduces "Dracula's Daughter" by saying "he would like to play the worst song he ever wrote in his entire life" before it kicks into crowd favorite "O Valencia!" as well as an upbeat and confident spirit that sounds great on the newer material from last years solid The King Is Dead [2011] to staple tracks like "We Both Go Down Together". Who knows where The Decemberists will go next but We All Raise Our Voices To The Air shows that it doesn't matter because they will always aim to entertain!

Key Tracks: "Oceanside", "The Crane Wife 1, 2, And 3", "Calamity Song"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Lullaby For The Working Class
R.E.M.
Camper Van Beethoven

The Decemberists: Long Live The King EP [Fire Note Review 11/7/11]
The Decemberists: iTunes Session [Fire Note Review 8/9/11]
The Decemberists: The King Is Dead [Fire Note Review 1/20/11] [#23 Top 50 of 2011]
The Decemberists: The Hazards Of Love [Fire Note Review 3/25/09]
The Decemberists: Always The Bridesmaid - A Singles Series [Fire Note Review 11/6/08]
Colin Meloy: Colin Meloy Sings Live! [Fire Note Review 5/19/08]
The Decemberists: The Crane Wife [Fire Note Review 10/2/06] [#3 Top 25 2006]

The Decemberists Website
The Decemberists Facebook
Captiol Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Margot And The Nuclear So And So's: Rot Gut, Domestic

Margot And The Nuclear So And So's
Rot Gut, Domestic
Mariel Recording Company [2012]









Fire Note Says: With their loudest guitar work to date Margot's latest LP takes the band to a new level and feels just right!

Album Review:
Rot Gut, Domestic is the fourth full length from Margot And The Nuclear So And So's and it follows the more muscular guitar path started on 2010's Buzzard. This continued direction is immediate on the opening slow burner "Disease And Tobacco Free" that churns out a sonic repetitive guitar chord as singer/songwriter Richard Edwards floats his lyrics just above the hum.

This delivery is what creates the intensity on Rot Gut, Domestic because Edwards can match each songs pace perfectly with his world weary views and yet possesses such a laid back vibe to his voice that each song feels familiar right up to the end. Of course the guitar on Rot Gut, Domestic gives the tracks teeth and more than any other album in the band's catalog its use here is the main focus and seems like Margot's purpose.

This record should please longtime fans because this progression continues to feel natural and their earlier chamber pop beginnings still exist here at the song's core. Album highlight "Coonskin Cap" actually takes a break from the power guitar work and lets Edwards slide back into a more modest role as the song sways back n forth during its chorus that hits a spectacular peak near its conclusion. There is also the quiet piano driven closer "Christ" that reminds you of where the band has been before and in no way have they forgotten their roots.

On other songs like the big rocker "Arvydas Sabonis", Margot showcases a complete different side to their setup as it represents one of their loudest tracks to date while the first single "Prozac Rock" is another foot tapper that will have you chiming in on the hook immediately. This instant catchiness is an element that is newer for Margot as previous albums were more growers than Rot Gut, Domestic. The album still does take several listens to really absorb but Margot And The Nuclear So And So's have secured their niche here and after just one spin you will be reaching for the repeat button quicker than ever!

Key Tracks: "Arvydas Sabonis", "Coonskin Cap", "Prozac Rock"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Spoon
Built To Spill
Cursive

Margot And The Nuclear So And So's: Buzzard [Fire Note Review 9/21/10]
Margot And The Nuclear So And So's: Not Animal / Animal! [Fire Note Review 10/14/08]
Margot And The Nuclear So And So's: The Daytrotter Sessions [EP] [Fire Drills Review 9/10/08]
Margot And The Nuclear So And So's: The Dust Of Retreat [Fire Note Review 8/8/06]

Margot And The Nuclear So And So's Website
Margot And The Nuclear So And So's Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Lucero: Women & Work

Lucero
Women & Work
ATO Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Lucero return with the polished Women & Work.

Album Review:
Lucero changed things up on their last record 1372 Overton Park [2009] by adding in horns, upping the production and mellowing a bit on their previous punk side. This slight shift in style continues on Women & Work as Lucero present some of their most mature sounding tracks to date.

This will not necessarily play well with longtime fans as Women & Work does not contain the same edge that their earlier material once possessed. This is not to say that the 11 songs here are bad but they definitely have a different vibe. The expansion of instruments is very evident as the horns and rolling piano play a major part throughout and are immediately heard on the first two tracks "On My Way Downtown" and the title track. These tracks have a true "Memphis" soul to them as Lucero come at you with a consistent high energy on the barroom rockers. Other tracks like the ballad "It May Be Too Late" show once again that lead vocalist/songwriter Ben Nichols can still offer a heartfelt punch while "I Can't Stand To Leave You" has all of the grit that lets his gruff delivery shine.

The rest of Women & Work follows similar patterns and has some problems remaining distinct. The overall sound of the record is crisp but I believe that is where Lucero struggle to still hold an edge and not slide to the middle of just being OK. Lucero is still an extremely talented group and Women & Work has its moments but at its conclusion most listener's last statement will be - what is next?

Key Tracks: "On My Way Downtown", "I Can't Stand To Leave You", "Sometimes"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Drive-By Truckers
Old 97's
The Bottle Rockets

Lucero: 1372 Overton Park [Fire Note Review 10/12/09]
Ben Nichols: The Last Pale Light In The West [EP] [Fire Note Review 1/14/09]
Lucero: Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers [Fire Note Review 11/28/06]

Lucero Website
Lucero Facebook
ATO Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Wedding Present: Valentina

The Wedding Present
Valentina
Scopitones Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: The Wedding Present return with the solid and sonic injected Valentina!

Album Review:
The Wedding Present are back with their 8th studio record Valentina and it represents their first record in four years. The best description taken right from the opening strong drum beats in "You're Dead" is that Valentina is not only a familiar trip with the classic band but one that showcases their veteran status and should hold up to fans expectations.

This notion is secured as singer David Gedge brings his swagger of a croon to the party full force and starts the tales of all the ways love can go haywire. This view point has only expanded as the band has aged but not in the sense that it is awful but merely putting Valentina as a life lesson on the topic that comes at you with confidence, strength and rock.

The "rock" contribution to Valentina is its overall backbone as each song has its moments of letting loose. "Back A Bit...Stop" hits on all cylinders as both guitar and drums crash in, out and around Gedge's vocals as the song ends in a fury only to give way to a one minute static filled conclusion. "The Girl From The DDR" features several quick transitional runs that take the song to several peaks in mere seconds while "End Credits" rises up and contains flashes of the band exploding out of your speakers!

Some may struggle with Valentina at first because The Wedding Present don't offer true hooks that make a track instantly memorable but this is an album, much like their catalog, that is a grower that melds their version of pop with a post-punk pulse. This is what Valentina offers, this is what The Wedding Present have always been about and this is why Valentina is another solid record on The Wedding Present's resume!

Key Tracks: "Back A Bit...Stop", "End Credits", "You Jane"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
Interpol
Superchunk

The Wedding Present Website
The Wedding Present Facebook
Scopitones Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Brixton Riot: Palace Amusements

The Brixton Riot
Palace Amusements
Modern Hymnal Recordings [2012]









Fire Note Says: Good old fashioned indie rock from Jersey!

Album Review:
With all the genre bending bands out there sometimes it is nice to just hear an honest indie rock record like the debut from New Jersey band The Brixton Riot. Right from the opening swirling guitar intro on "Signal To Noise" you get a very comfortable vibe from the quartet as the song shifts into a foot tapping mode and the verse takes off with confidence. This combination sets the tone of the record and offers up pop, punk and power.

The song is a good example of how the rest of Palace Amusements plays out as each track has a personality that follows a more straight-ahead indie music style comparable to the early 90's which shows that The Brixton Riot is capable of handing out upbeat rockers and tuneful mid-tempo numbers that give you doses of ripping guitar lines. This Big Star meets The Replacements concoction is highlighted on the mood shifting "Canvas Shoes" and "Hipster Turns 30" that both feature a relaxed guitar strumming that increases its intensity with a feverish vocal climb as both songs turn it up a notch towards the end and become instantly memorable.

The Brixton Riot have released a solid debut that should really attract fans of the late 80's/early 90's jangly rock era. Palace Amusements sounds like it is from a band more seasoned as the debut has a multitude of catchy moments and was engineered by Frank Marchand (Bob Mould, The Thermals, Calexico). The results are an enjoyable "window's down" type listen and The Brixton Riot give a true modern flare to a style that is way underrepresented in the current music scene.

Key Tracks: "Canvas Shoes", "Hipster Turns 30", "Signal To Noise"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Phoids
Ted Leo
The Figgs

The Brixton Riot Website
The Brixton Riot Facebook
Modern Hymnal Recordings

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Anti-Flag: The General Strike

Anti-Flag
The General Strike
SideOneDummy Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Anti-Flag return with one of their most charged punk records to date!

Album Review:
We have been here before when it comes to a seasoned punk rock band like Anti-Flag and on their 8th studio record The General Strike they show you why punk still matters and why they are still one of the best bands around! Anti-Flag pull no tricks here as The General Strike is a straightforward, political, fast paced and melodic offering that concludes in a mere 27 minutes.

Within this focused time frame the band once again questions the political system in which we live while also addressing citizens that complain but do nothing. With that said The General Strike is all about getting involved, taking some sort of action is better than doing nothing and adding another voice against corporate injustice.

Now if you are not into the politics found on The General Strike then you might stay away from Anti-Flag because, as always, their passion flies here. If you like solid punk rock and can get with the challenging of the system for a little bit then The General Strike is right up your alley and probably will be one of the better punk albums released this year. Quality songs, tight musicianship and memorable in your face hooks - doesn't get any more real than Anti-Flag!

Key Tracks: "Bullshit Opportunities", "This Is The New Sound", "The Ghosts Of Alexandria"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Rise Against
Against Me!
Rancid

Anti-Flag: The People Or The Gun [Fire Note Review 7/21/09]

Anti-Flag Website
Anti-Flag Facebook
SideOneDummy Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Bruce Springsteen: Wrecking Ball

Bruce Springsteen
Wrecking Ball
Columbia Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Bruce is Bruce on the classic sounding Wrecking Ball!

Album Review:
It actually amazes me that Bruce Springsteen has been consistently releasing albums every 2 or 3 years since 2002's The Rising. Maybe it shouldn't but most artists of Springsteen's stature and tenure in the business always seem to take more time - typically because they can. What is even better is that Springsteen's output has been consistent and Wrecking Ball not only adds to his catalog but ranks up there with some of his best.

Right from the politically fired up first track "We Take Care Of Our Own" you just know that Bruce is ready to hand out another dose of American driven rock with purpose. If you thought that Wrecking Ball was going to be a record that might not stir the pot...think again. Tracks like "Jack Of All Trades" has a hopeful quality to it and encourages pushing forward but also admits that using a gun on the bastards might be the best option. Other tracks on Wrecking Ball represent some of Springsteen's most forward calls to action of sorts against the system. Some of these more bold statements might lose the casual Bruce fan but they are honest tales of where his mindset is currently in this election year.

Wrecking Ball does mix in elements of older school gospel with some modern flare that gives the record a more timeless appeal. "Land Of Hopes And Dreams" features the last recorded appearance by the late and great longtime E Street Band member Clarence Clemons as it is one of the better tracks on the album and perfect last salute to Clemons. Wrecking Ball has many different contributors that includes Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine, The Nightwatchman) adding in his skilled guitar work to the mix. This variety works well as the record never gets stagnant and the songs continue to still be "Bruce" but offer up something different. It is an album that exceeds expectations, sounds great upon replay and once again is 100% Bruce Springsteen!

Key Tracks: "We Take Care Of Our Own", "Land Of Hope And Dreams", "Wrecking Ball"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Leeroy Stagger
The Gaslight Anthem
Steve Earle

Bruce Springsteen: Working On A Dream [Fire Note Review 1/28/09]

Bruce Springsteen Website
Bruce Springsteen Facebook
Columbia Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony