The Fire Note

Buxton: Nothing Here Seems Strange

2012-01-27T07:00:00.009-05:00

Buxton
Nothing Here Seems Strange
New West Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Third album from folk-rock group Buxton is a grower that pays off!

Album Review:
Buxton are a five piece folk-rock outfit out of Houston, Texas that offer up an energetic record full of lush harmonies, mandolin, banjo, piano and good old guitar. Nothing Here Seems Strange is the groups third record overall and first LP for New West as their style is a perfect fit for the label's roster.

Buxton succeed here as their music has a winning timeless appeal right from the opening banjo strums in album opener "Wolves And Owls" and record highlight "Blown A Fuse". This track has an upbeat old school Wilco bounce to it that has a catchy pop chorus and a stand out guitar solo which drives the track home.

These types of Americana blend reoccur on Nothing Here Seems Strange which helps give the record a high replay value. Lead singer/guitarist Sergio Tervino also raises the bar here as his distinct vocal stays out in front but always comes across a bit fragile. This vulnerability lets the band twirl the music around the vocals as both components work hand in hand to build the record's solid song structures. Nothing Here Seems Strange is an album that deserves several listens as it is a true grower but in a genre that is full of options, Buxton stand out and are a band to watch in 2012!

Key Tracks: "Blown A Fuse", "Boy Of Nine", "Oh My Boy"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Gram Parsons
Wilco
Clem Snide

Buxton Website
Buxton Facebook
New West Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

First Aid Kit: The Lion's Roar

2012-01-26T07:00:00.013-05:00

First Aid Kit
The Lion's Roar
Wichita Recordings [2012]

Fire Note Says: Sophomore album from Americana duo First Aid Kit delivers with complete warmth and depth.

Album Review:
Swedish sisters, Klara and Johanna Söderberg make up First Aid Kit and The Lion's Roar is the young pair's sophomore record which represents their first US-recorded album. If you heard the album first you might be surprised to hear that the duo were not American born from their honest and solid style of folk Americana presented here on the album's ten tracks.

Regardless of their origin, right from the opening title track you will fully engage with the instantly likable vocal of Klara, the backing harmonies from Johanna and most certainly the warm depth that the mandolin, piano and pedal steel create. This leads you right into the best track on the record, "Emmylou", that name checks Johnny Cash, Gram Parsons, June Carter and of course Harris as it strolls along with a catchy chorus that just pleads for a continued relationship with the line "just sing, little darling, just sing with me".

The Lion's Roar was recorded in Omaha and produced by longtime Bright Eyes collaborator Mike Mogis. Mogis also plays on just about every track along with other Saddle Creek family member Nate Walcott. The added talent didn't just end there either as the closing track "King Of The World" features Conor Oberst singing the last verse as well as The Felice Brothers lending some supportive instruments. The track is another highlight on The Lion's Roar and it is the most upbeat song on the album that also includes trumpet and hand claps.

Considering that First Aid Kit are in their late teens and early twenties, The Lion's Roar sounds much more mature in both their vocal talent and songwriting which gives the album its full confidence. This only makes me excited for what the duo will do next as clearly this is only the beginning and with such a strong outing in The Lion's Roar, First Aid Kit will definitely be a group that we will hear from for some time to come!

Key Tracks: "The Lion's Roar", "King Of The World", "Emmylou"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Neko Case
Fleet Foxes
Audra Mae

First Aid Kit Website
First Aid Kit Facebook
Wichita Recordings

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Graham Repulski: My Color Is Red 7"

2012-01-26T06:59:00.007-05:00

Graham Repulski
My Color Is Red 7"
Big School Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Short and lo-fi pop sweet!

Album Review:
The My Color Is Red 7" represents the 6th release in the past 2 years from Graham Repulski and it is their very first release on wax. The four tracks included on this 7" once again embrace the band's love for lo-fi indie pop and all together give you a little over 7 minutes of music.

Now what they do in these seven minutes sets them apart as tracks like "Mommy's Dreaming" sticks in your head with its repeated lo-fi chorus and perfect balance of distorted vocals, which honestly could fit right in with early GBV records. Pollard collaborator Todd Tobias once again worked with the band and mastered the release which, as always, is the perfect pairing for what Graham Repulski like to do.

If you have checked out Graham Repulski before then the My Color Is Red 7" will certainly please your ear and is a must to pick up as it has been pressed in an extremely limited quantity of 200 hand-numbered red vinyl with each featuring unique cut-out artwork.

Key Tracks: "My Color Is Red", "Mommy's Dreaming"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Times New Viking
Guided By Voices
Sentridoh

Graham Repulski: Into An Animal Together [Fire Note Review 7/20/11]
Graham Repulski: Electric Worrier [Fire Note Review 1/6/11]

Graham Repulski Website
Graham Repulski Facebook
Big School Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Cloud Nothings: Attack On Memory

2012-01-25T07:00:00.009-05:00

Cloud Nothings
Attack On Memory
Carpark Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Cloud Nothings evolve again on their spectacular sophomore outing Attack On Memory!

Album Review:
Sometimes it is amazing how much can change in a year as the ever evolving Cloud Nothings follows up a really good self-titled debut record released last January with the even better Attack On Memory. The once basement self recorded project of Dylan Baldi has now progressed past just getting in the studio with a producer to making Cloud Nothings a full fledged band and recording with Steve Albini in Chicago.

The transition was fast but the product is absolute quality as Attack On Memory is a lofty fused post-hardcore assault on your brain that has a multitude of layers and a 4D depth. This alive feeling comes at you with an out in front Baldi vocal that lets him hit the top of his almost scream range while his band swirls the guitars behind him.

The engaging balance of this emerging rock sound Cloud Nothings has going on is that they can still inject catchy and memorable harmonies like the sing-along tracks "Fall In" and "Stay Useless" which will have you chiming in within seconds. The three minute rock out instrumental "Separation" is also an exciting turn and new trick for the group while the almost nine minute "Wasted Days" is a riff rhythmic piece of art that doesn't even sound like the same band in every good way possible.

Attack On Memory will easily be the bar from which Cloud Nothings will be now measured as it is a rock thrill ride from beginning to end. Baldi admittedly wanted something that he could expand on during the live show and every track on here will not only allow for such manipulation but after hearing this record I believe that you will expect it!

Key Tracks: "Cut You", "Fall In", "Separation"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Drive Like Jehu
The Men
Sunny Day Real Estate

Cloud Nothings: Cloud Nothings [Fire Note Review 1/24/11]

Cloud Nothings Facebook
Carpark Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Bhi Bhiman: BHIMAN

2012-01-25T06:59:00.002-05:00

Bhi Bhiman
BHIMAN
BooCoo Music [2012]

Fire Note Says: Bhi Bhiman gives you an honest record that will win you over with his voice alone.

Album Review:
Bhi Bhiman (pronounced "Bee Bee-men") has already been labeled The Sri Lankan Woody Guthrie which should give you some indication of what his new record BHIMAN sounds like as he moves through different genres such as soul, country and West African-influenced folk. Bhiman's unique floating pitched vocal is the first thing that will catch your ear on the opening track "Guttersnipe" which brings you into the story of a railroad hobo and secures your attention for the duration of the album.

The rest of BHIMAN relies primarily on Bhiman's vocals, guitar and stories while giving both up tempo foot tappers like the minute long instrumental "Mexican Wine", blues pickers such as "Kimchee Line" and the intense "The Cookbook".

Bhi Bhiman is a talented artist that if given the right spotlight could easily pick up a bigger following. BHIMAN does suffer a little bit from a lack of track-to-track cohesiveness but Bhiman's engaging vocals make up for that issue on most songs and ultimately leave the listener with a good feeling that will make them reach for the repeat button upon the album's conclusion!

Key Tracks: "Guttersnipe", "Cookbook", "Crime Of Passion"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Israel Nash Gripka
Bill Withers
John Prine

Bhi Bhiman Website
Bhi Bhiman Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Craig Finn: Clear Heart Full Eyes

2012-01-24T07:00:00.007-05:00

Craig Finn
Clear Heart Full Eyes
Vagrant Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Solo debut from The Hold Steady frontman has its moments.

Album Review:
Craig Finn has released a good number of albums with Lifter Puller and The Hold Steady but Clear Heart Full Eyes represents his debut solo record. Like any other frontman spreading his wings, Clear Heart Full Eyes changes up things a bit from his normal routine and definitely gives you a honest and transparent look at Finn.

One change for Craig on this record was his travel to Austin, Texas to record with producer Mike McCarthy (Spoon, Heartless Bastards) which not only helped remove all his familiar surroundings but McCarthy also supplied the backing musicians. This new approach embraced the more laid back guitar and vocal focus on Clear Heart Full Eyes, while also giving the record a very Americana undertone. This vibe comes through loud and clear on the folk-jangly "New Friend Jesus" and the standout pedal steel on "Western Pier".

Most of the album keeps a mid-tempo pace on its tracks but noticeably finds Finn examining being alone, displacement, religion and living outside your comfort zone. This true emotion comes through on tracks like "Rented Room" when Finn sings "I know I should be getting over you, certain things are really hard to do when you're living in a rented room", or on "No Future" when he claims his best advice came from Johnny Rotten when he said "God Save The Queen - no future for you - no future for me.

Craig Finn has released a good record here that grows on you with each spin but will struggle to make a long-lasting impression. I believe Hold Steady fans will still like this record but the songs are not always memorable which ultimately holds Clear Heart Full Eyes back from being stellar.

Key Tracks: "No Future", "Terrified Eyes", "Rented Room"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Elvis Costello
Bob Mould
Jenny Lewis

The Hold Steady: Heaven Is Whenever [Fire Note Review 5/4/10]
The Hold Steady: A Positive Rage [Fire Note Review 4/13/09]
The Hold Steady: Stay Positive [Fire Note Review 7/17/08] [#13 Top 50 2008]
The Hold Steady: Boys And Girls In America [Fire Note Review 10/3/06] [#2 Top 25 2006]

Craig Finn Website
Craig Finn Facebook
Vagrant Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Ani DiFranco: ¿Which Side Are You On?

2012-01-23T07:00:00.015-05:00

Ani DiFranco
¿Which Side Are You On?
Righteous Babe Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: First studio album in more than three years finds Ani DiFranco still as relevant as ever.

Album Review:
On Ani DiFranco's 17th album, ¿Which Side Are You On?, balance, as she sings repeatedly on the the fourth track "Splinter", seems to be the lens through which she recorded this record. Amidst the reworked and raucously political title track that was once popularized by Pete Seeger in the sixties and songs like "Amendment" are beautiful and intimately lyrical melodies like the "Albacore" and "Hearse", the later reinforcing the theme of balance with the honestly sung lyric "there is nothing like dancing our dance of give and take".

Fans of Ani's work are familiar with songs as rally cries for justice and human rights, however, tracks like the aforementioned "Amendment" highlight the natural progression of politics for women as our passions become fueled by our perspectives as partners, mothers and sisters in arms. The song which tackles everything from the ERA, to abortion, to the culture of birth in our society boasts the lyric "our family is so big and we're all so very small, let a web of relationship be laid over it all" this perhaps being Ani's reaffirmation that "it takes a village".

While ¿Which Side Are You On? is a solid offering from the Righteous Babe herself it remains to be seen how many new fans are drawn in by this record. As a fan of Ani D's since the early 90's, this album continues in the same vein of calling on us to be better human beings with her easily recognizable voice and well known guitar chords. So, just as she brings us out on "Splinter" - "here's to staying connected to everything"!

Key Tracks: "Splinter", "Amendment", "Hearse"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Joanna Newsom
Billy Bragg
Anaïs Mitchell

Ani DiFranco: Red Letter Year [Fire Note Review 9/29/08]

Ani DiFranco Website
Ani DiFranco Facebook
Righteous Babe Records

-Reviewed by Michelle Moore

Nada Surf: The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy

2012-01-20T07:00:00.008-05:00

Nada Surf
The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy
Barsuk Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: A big sprawling return of an album from Nada Surf that is full of hooks, guitars and energy!

Album Review:
As Matthew Caws sings the line “This new peace - I can feel it now,” in "Waiting For Something" on Nada Surf's sixth full length The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy, it highlights that Nada Surf have returned with one of their most inspired and bright albums to date. The record brings all of the soaring hooks and melodies that fans have come to expect from the veteran indie band but on The Stars, the intensity has definitely been turned up.

This is the groups first album of new material in almost four years (If I Had A Hi-Fi [2010] was a covers album) and the approach for recording was play it faster and a little harder like the band performs live while utilizing all of their "new song" energy. The result under the guidance of producer Chris Shaw (Wilco, Bob Dylan, Super Furry Animals) is a record that comes at you with guitars and hooks blazing like the new memorable rockers "Looking Through" and "Waiting For Something".

Speaking of guitars, Nada Surf also expanded their trio for the recording process with the talented axe-man Doug Gillard (Guided By Voices, Bambi Kino, Death Of Samantha) whom Caws met several years ago. Gillard played on If I Had Hi-Fi and toured with the group which made him a natural to add his skilled guitar solos to Stars which are a bright spot on every track.

The combining of Nada Surf's focus with their high spirits makes Stars one of the most optimistic records the band has released which showcases a group that is at total peace with their indie rock status. It absolutely doesnt matter if the band is reflecting back on a track like "When I Was Young" or looking outward during "The Moon Is Calling", Nada Surf sound great doing it. The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy is an album that grows and gets better after every spin because once Nada Surf hook you here - they really hook you - which is all the feedback longtime fans really wanted to hear in the first place!

Key Tracks: "Waiting For Something", "Jules And Jim", "Looking Through"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Big Star
Cymbals Eat Guitars
Death Cab For Cutie

Nada Surf: If I Had A Hi-Fi [Fire Note Review 4/28/10]
Nada Surf: Vinyl Box Set 1994-2008 [Fire Note Review 12/8/08]
Nada Surf: Lucky [Fire Note Review 2/6/08]

Nada Surf Website
Nada Surf Facebook
Barsuk Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Cardinal: Hymns

2012-01-20T06:59:00.014-05:00

Cardinal
Hymns
Fire Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Richard Davies and Eric Matthews reunite 18 years later for Cardinal's sophomore album Hymns.

Album Review:
18 years is a long time to wait for a sophomore outing but that is exactly the case from Richard Davies and Eric Matthews early band Cardinal. Since that time both guys have had a nice music career as Matthews has released six albums and two critically hailed on Sub Pop while Davies of The Moles fame had his own success on independents Flydaddy and Kindercore as well as working with Robert Pollard on the Cosmos collaboration.

Hymns is an interesting listen because you just have no idea what to expect going in with so much time in-between albums and considering the fact that the musical climate is ever moving. The biggest surprise here is that not much has changed at all from the self-titled debut as both Davies and Matthews personality rings through here and if you enjoyed them before you will enjoy Cardinal again.

Matthews' has always been known for his brass support in his compositions which surface again here on excellent tracks like "Carbolic Smoke Bell" and "Kal", while his soft chamber pop vocal flourishes on "Her". The contrast of course happens when Davies takes the lead as his more straightforward rock voice, with some small vocal effects, gives off a different vibe and provides the album some likable diversity.

Regardless of their evolved different styles over the years, both artists work well together again as if Cardinal never took a break. Hymns has plenty of winners if given repeat plays as the piano driven ballad "General Hospital" is solid while "Love Like Rain" is an upbeat power pop rocker that is worth hearing again.

Hymns does suffer a little from never blowing you away immediately and because of so much time in-between releases, Cardinal may not get all the attention they deserve nor pull in too many new fans. It is an album that is a good listen, especially if you were fan back in 1994, and because of the talented Matthews and Davies we can only hope another record will develop out of this reunited collaboration because it would have the potential to be stellar!

Key Tracks: "Her", "Carbolic Smoke Ball", "Love Like Rain"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Clientele
Cosmos
The Divine Comedy

Cosmos: Jar Of Jam Ton Of Bricks [Fire Note Review 6/5/09]

Eric Matthews Website
Richard Davies Facebook
Fire Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Wussy: Strawberry

2012-01-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

Wussy
Strawberry
Shake It Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Do you remember what indie rock sounds like? Wussy do!

Album Review:
Former Ass Pony Chuck Cleaver and his partner in crime, songwriter/co-vocalist Lisa Walker are back with Wussy's fourth album Strawberry. It is another infectious batch of 11 songs that alternate the lead vocals between Cleaver and Walker while the rest of the band backs up each singer with a note for note perfection.

You might think that with age Wussy would mellow but Strawberry is the proof that their style of jangly indie rock is timeless as the group sounds just as fresh here as they did on their debut back in 2005. Strawberry succeeds most because the band keeps pushing as "Pulverized" is one of the most rocked up tracks the band has released, while songs like "Chicken" and "Magnolia" are prime examples of how Walker's vocal range continues to expand.

This winning connection continues throughout the record right down to the excellent six minute closer "Little Miami" that finds a completely new emotional chord from a band that is already great and leaves you easily wanting more!

Key Tracks: "Grand Champion Steer", "Pulverized", "Little Miami"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Heartless Bastards
R.E.M.
Superchunk

Wussy: Wussy [Fire Note Review 5/7/09]
Wussy: Rigor Mortis [EP] [Fire Note Review 10/17/08]
Wussy: Left For Dead [Fire Note Review 10/25/07]

Wussy Website
Wussy Facebook
Shake It Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Guided By Voices: Chocolate Boy 7"

2012-01-19T06:59:00.013-05:00

Guided By Voices
Chocolate Boy 7"
Guided By Voices Inc. Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Add it to your collection now before they are all gone!

Single Review:
If you have been keeping up on the exciting return of the "classic lineup" Guided By Voices then the Chocolate Boy 7" is a must for your collection. Assuming that you have heard the excellent full length, Let's Go Eat The Factory, then you already know how catchy the single is so the strength of this 7" only increases by the non-album Tobin Sprout b-side tune “As The Girls Sing Downing.”

The track is an up tempo pop foot tapper that puts Sprout's soft vocals out front and builds right up to the end with the repeated chorus and ending harmony. The song of course is just over 2 minutes long so in GBV terms - it is perfect!

Not only is the music great here but this 7" will turn out to be one for the collectors, as it is a cool chocolate brown color and has a whopping 70 gram weight. The song says that "the summer made a chocolate boy no more" but I will tell you that the quality of this wax is superb, could survive the elements and should be on your short list to pick up now if you are a fan!

Guided By Voices: Let's Go Eat The Factory [Fire Note Review 12/9/11]
Guided By Voices: Live In Daytron ?6˚ [Fire Note Review 1/10/11]
Guided By Voices: Suitcase 3 (Up We Go Now) [Fire Note Review 11/2/09]
Guided By Voices: Live From Austin TX: Austin City Limits [Fire Note Review 7/5/07]

Guided By Voices Website
Guided By Voices Facebook
Guided By Voices Inc.

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Big Pink: Future This

2012-01-18T07:00:00.005-05:00

The Big Pink
Future This
4AD Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Sophomore outing from The Big Pink has its moments but doesn't rival their exciting debut.

Album Review:
Trying to follow up a stellar debut is something that every successful new band struggles with and more times than not - the group misses the mark. I believe you can add London's The Big Pink to the list as their sophomore album, Future This, finds the group bringing back the same sonic approach with guitar, melody and concise song structures but with a slouching confidence.

This does not mean that The Big Pink can't come at you with huge choruses as the one-two punch of "Stay Gold" and "Hit The Ground (Superman)" play well loud and remind you of why you liked the group back in 2009. Neither come close to the memorable "Dominoes" but they go down the right path.

"Give It Up" starts the stretching, as it plays a bit tired and finds its mid-tempo feeling like retread while the next couple tracks follow suit. "Rubbernecking" shines back strong as it bounces along but may come off a bit too playful for its own good to some while "Jump Music" does try out some new sonic tricks but never totally grabs your attention.

For all the almost great ideas on Future This, The Big Pink absolutely still don't fall flat here with its strong enough singles to keep fans interested and a stellar and surprising ballad in the closer "77". This song instantly restores all faith in The Big Pink's talent and quite honestly will push you to give Future This another spin.

Key Tracks: "Hit The Ground (Superman)", "Stay Gold", "77"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Echo & The Bunnymen
M83
Depeche Mode

The Big Pink: A Brief History Of Love [Fire Note Review 9/30/09] [#34 Top 50 2009]

The Big Pink Website
The Big Pink Facebook
4AD Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

David Newton & Thee Mighty Angels: Paint The Town EP

2012-01-18T06:59:00.003-05:00

David Newton & Thee Mighty Angels
Paint The Town EP
Self-Released [2011]

Fire Note Says: David Newton returns to the music scene with his solid and melodic bursting Paint The Town EP!

Album Review:
If you really know your music than I expect that you might already know David Newton as the guitarist in the Wolverhampton, England band The Mighty Lemon Drops. Their heyday was in the late eighties, early nineties before they broke up as David then played briefly with The Blue Aeroplanes.

Catching up, Newton has been located in Los Angeles since 1995 and converted his garage into a recording studio where he has produced and engineered countless records that include The Little Ones, The Henry Clay People and The Soft Pack to just name a few.

Paint The Town is actually Newton's first solo work and to no surprise was self-produced, performed and recorded in California over the last year. What I like about the Paint The Town EP is that David embraces the sound he knows well and cranks out 5 tracks of modern melodic pop that build on the post-punk he did so well with The Mighty Lemon Drops.

All five songs are big and bursting with memorable choruses that instantly engage the listener and will have you singing along with ease. Paint The Town is a solid 15 minutes of everything going right for David Newton and showcases his veteran status that is entrenched with the current musical scene. Newton is planning a full length album here in 2012 and based on the strength of this outing - we can't wait to hear it!

Key Tracks: "Paint The Town", "Bittersweet", "My First Band"

Bands With Similar Fire:
John P. Strohm
Mike Viola
Tommy Keene

David Newton & Thee Mighty Angels Website
David Newton & Thee Mighty Angels Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Kathleen Edwards: Voyageur

2012-01-17T07:00:00.003-05:00

Kathleen Edwards
Voyageur
Zoë/Rounder Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: An intense and compelling journey through heartbreak, regrets and maybe even hope!

Album Review:
On Voyageur, Canadian songwriter Kathleen Edwards chronicles her journey through heartache and sadness of her recent divorce, as well as the possibility of renewal and happiness with new love Justin Vernon (also known as Bon Iver and co-producer of the album).

Edwards' songs have always told captivating stories about the ups and downs of relationships with friends, family and lovers - almost always with sharp wit and dry humor. But this time the stories and attitude step back to make room for raw emotions, private thoughts and sad observations (like "Pink Champagne", which looks back on her wedding day and notes "it was such a dumb idea").

Voyageur ranges from upbeat and melodic pop (the first single, "Change The Sheets") to slow and mournful ballads ("House Full Of Empty Rooms"), and so fans of Edwards' early alt-country records may have trouble keeping up as she moves away from her roots in that genre. And while she hasn't abandoned the style completely, it's now clear she'll never stay in one place (the opener "Empty Threat" has a slight twangy feel, even while she warns "I'm moving to America").

"For the record, I only wanted to sing songs," Edwards sings with collaborator Norah Jones as the album draws to a close - a quiet declaration that she'll remain true to herself while traveling through a painful and confusing world.

Key Tracks: "Empty Threat", "Change The Sheets", "For The Record"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Decemberists
The Jayhawks
Sam Philips

Kathleen Edwards Website
Kathleen Edwards Facebook
Zoë/Rounder Records

-Reviewed by Nick Kizirnis (www.nickykay.com)

TV Casualty: TV Casualty 7"

2012-01-17T06:59:00.007-05:00

TV Casualty
TV Casualty 7"
Matador Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Never hurts to revisit the Misfits!

Album Review:
If you have been around Philadelphia you might be familiar with the punk cover group TV Casualty that plays out once in awhile tackling different set lists from classics like Black Flag and Minor Threat. It may surprise you that their lineup includes Andy Nelson (Ceremony, Paint It Black) on bass, Atom Goren (Atom And His Package) and Brian Sokel (AM/FM) on guitar, and Chris Wilson (Ted Leo/Pharmacists) cranking the drums.

This record also features none other than Ted Leo himself representing proudly his best Glenn Danzig persona on vocals, as the group rips out 6 Misfits tracks on this limited red 7" release. The album is complete fun and this group nails the intensity as each track rocks out completely with Ted Leo's superb lowered howl.

The great thing about this 7" is that all the proceeds from the release go directly to the Attic Youth Center in Philadelphia so you really can't go wrong with the price of admission.

Key Tracks: "Children In Heat", "Teenagers From Mars", "Who Killed Marilyn?"

Matador Records
Attic Youth Center

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

A Shoreline Dream: Losing Them All This Time

2012-01-13T07:00:00.006-05:00

A Shoreline Dream
Losing Them All This Time
Latenight Weeknight Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: A Shoreline Dream help you get away with their quality shoegazer Losing Them All This Time.

Album Review:
I think that there are tons of music fans out there that just really don't get the shoegaze movement. That is totally fine but this disconnect translates into a much more underground scene that makes it harder to discover new bands for all of those that enjoy the vibe.

That is why I like Denver's A Shoreline Dream and have been a fan since their debut, Avoiding The Consequences, released back in 2006. The modern group brings a fresh sound to the genre while always balancing the line of completely spacing out and maintaining some sense of song structure. Losing Them All This Time follows the same path and engages the listener around every spacious corner.

A Shoreline Dream succeed because they do not need a 10 minute plus song to convey their art, as most of the record's tracks average 4 minutes. Some new avenues emerge on Losing Them All This Time, such as the more upbeat risings in the excellent "Fault 67" or the quicker background tempo in the memorable "London". A Shoreline Dream also includes a surprise cover of Fleetwood Mac's "The Chain" which turns out to be a stellar version as it floats into feverish peaks as singer Ryan Policky commands your attention.

A Shoreline Dream never redefine the shoegaze genre on Losing Them All This Time but their attention to detail prevails on this record, as it is another must listen right down to the daunting last track "Lost", which appropriately leaves the listener hypnotized as the instrumental noise track trails off into the sunset!

Key Tracks: "Fault 67", "London", "The Chain"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Slowdive
Chapterhouse
Ulrich Schnauss

A Shoreline Dream: Recollections Of Memory [Fire Note Review 2/10/09]
A Shoreline Dream: Avoiding The Consequences [Fire Note Review 8/25/06]

A Shoreline Dream Website
A Shoreline Dream Facebook
Latenight Weeknight Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

O'Brother: Garden Window

2012-01-12T07:00:00.008-05:00

O'Brother
Garden Window
Triple Crown Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: O'Brother comes at you from a multitude of angles but they all lead to one heavy rocking debut in Garden Window!

Album Review:
I guess art-metal-indie-rock is a thing and if not then I am just going to place Atlanta's O'Brother in that category because their debut, Garden Window, is one rocked out wild ride from beginning to end. This of course is said with a great amount of respect because O'Brother is one of those bands that things could go horribly wrong fast but instead they possess an emerging confidence on each and every track that makes you think that they have been at this for years.

The heavy fuzzed up opening track "Malum" is a good starting example of how this band morphs from track to track as the song grinds along with some Tool tendencies before switching gears into the memorable "Lo" that rocks with the best of Queens Of The Stone Age's material. "Poison!" showcases O'Brother's artistic indie side, as it slides a little piano in and out of its background with the building vocals of Tanner Merritt.

Overall, Garden Window is grandiose and loud in every good way a record of this nature can be. It's eleven songs cover a whopping 63 minutes as the band can crank out a 6, 7 or even a 14 minute track. O'Brother might not be for everyone but for fans of this stylistic rock, this is a stellar debut that should capture everyone that enjoys the more familiar Queens Of The Stone Age vibe to the heavy instrumental rock outfit Russian Circles. O'Brother takes no prisoners on Garden Window and I don't think you would want it any other way!

Key Tracks: "Lo", "Lay Down", "Poison!"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Mastodon
Queens Of The Stone Age
Russian Circles

O'Brother Website
O'Brother Facebook
Triple Crown Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Weekend: Red EP

2012-01-12T06:59:00.003-05:00

Weekend
Red EP
Slumberland Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: A possible preview of what's to come.

Album Review:
The Red EP is a nice teaser for what 2012 brings our way from lo-fi rockers Weekend. Opening track "Sweet Sixteen" shows off some of Weekend's hazy talents as the track is very slow moving and uses frontman Shaun Durkan's voice to penetrate through the wall of sound.

In contrast, the next track "Hazel" is much more a straightforward rocker that has a pulsing bass and stand out drum beat which allows Durnkan to bring it all home with a catchy hook. With only 5 songs on Red, Weekend only offer so much insight here but there is an attractive balance of shoegaze combined with their lo-fi rock.

This release truly raises the anticipation for a full length because even though the upbeat tunes outshine the slower material here, Weekend still succeed on the almost 6 minute closing grinder "Golfers" and that just makes this band that much more daunting!

Key Tracks: "Hazel", "The One You Want", "Sweet Sixteen"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Deerhunter
Girls
Real Estate

Weekend Website
Weekend Facebook
Slumberland Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Snow Patrol: Fallen Empires

2012-01-11T07:00:00.008-05:00

Snow Patrol
Fallen Empires
Universal Music Group [2012]

Fire Note Says: Snow Patrol swing for the big singles on sixth LP Fallen Empires.

Album Review:
Snow Patrol are back with their sixth album Fallen Empires and it once again finds the band trying to recreate the magic of their 2006 hit "Chasing Cars". I thought that Snow Patrol moved away from this on their solid follow up and last outing A Hundred Million Suns (2008) but Fallen Empires trends back to a mid-tempo ballad around every corner.

First single "Called Out In The Dark" does try to shake some things up a bit with its strong dance beat but it never completely catches your attention while the title track follows the same pattern with a feverish electronic backdrop that just misses. The overall tone on Fallen Empires is upbeat which is a nice progression for Snow Patrol but at almost a 60 minute running time the album's similar vibe wears you out a bit.

Before you totally toss this record aside, I do think that fans will still find some memorable songs on here like the engaging ballad "New York" which has the potential to conquer the airwaves. The downside of Fallen Empires is that it just never seems to totally take off from some great ideas or capture the indie mojo the band once possessed.

Key Tracks: "Called Out In The Dark", "New York", "This Isn't Everything You Are"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Coldplay
Bell XI
Travis

Snow Patrol: Up To Now [Fire Note Review 11/19/09]
Snow Patrol: A Hundred Million Suns [Fire Note Review 11/5/08]

Snow Patrol Website
Snow Patrol Facebook
Universal Music Group

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Run Dan Run: Normal

2012-01-11T06:59:00.006-05:00

Run Dan Run
Normal
Hearts And Plugs Records [2012]

Fire Note Says: Sophomore album from Run Dan Run proves worth the wait!

Album Review:
Five years is a long time to wait for a sophomore outing but for Charleston, SC trio Run Dan Run that is exactly the case with their engaging new album Normal. The band easily avoids a sophomore slump as Normal offers up both energized indie rock on tracks like "Lovesick Animal" while pulling it back on slow burners such as "Spelling Words" that bring the listener in very close. Run Dan Run succeed with solid musicianship, stand out percussion and the smooth vocal delivery of Dan McCurry which regardless of tempo is the reason you will keep coming back. Normal finds Run Dan Run in their prime and hopefully after some greater exposure with Normal we won't need to wait another five years for album number three!

Key Tracks: "Lovesick Animal", "Spelling Words", "Box-Type Love"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Broken Social Scene
Luna
Ra Ra Riot

Run Dan Run Website
Run Dan Run Facebook
Hearts And Plugs Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Turntable Kitchen: Pairings Box Vol. 1-4

2012-01-10T07:00:00.016-05:00

Turntable Kitchen
Pairings Box Vol. 1-4
Self-Released [2011/2012]

Did you ever play some new music and think that rosemary-basted eggs, lavender-sea salt steaks, eggplant stacks with zataar yogurt or a chipotle chocolate cake might go really well with your vinyl selection? Well, San Francisco couple Kasey and Matthew absolutely think this way and now with their creative Turntable Kitchen Pairings Boxes they share recipes, give you some ingredients and supply the limited release vinyl singles from great independent bands for your listening pleasure. The idea turns out to be the perfect combo for The Fire Note as we love to eat and clearly love new music. Currently the monthly subscriptions are sold out but starting January 15, Turntable Kitchen is taking new reoccurring subscriptions so make sure you don't delay if you want in!

Below is a quick take on the first four featured bands of the series which are all unique and a great listen!

TK001 - Motel Beds: Western Son/UK Surfjerk 7" (White Vinyl/250)

Dayton, Ohio's Motel Beds have been featured here on The Fire Note so we were quite pleased that they were selected for the debut pairing. This 7" gives you an alternate take on Surfjerk that is superb with their unique style of rock that is enough to keep you coming back for more.

TK002 - Evenings: Lo-Velo/Babe 7" (White Vinyl/250)

Virginia based Evenings features the musical mind of Nathan Broaddus and his mostly instrumental creations that set the perfect mood for any type of dinner you create. I will also warn you that the stylistic "Lo-Velo" will have you looking at your vinyl as it purposely drops in and out which only adds to its enjoyment.

TK003 - Steffaloo: When The Sun Goes Down/Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go (Clear Vinyl/300)

Steffaloo has a very elegant and shimmering siren vocal that uses a straightforward acoustic-guitar based melody to grab your ear. The real interesting treat here is her deconstructed cover of Wham's "Wake Me Up" that shines with her light vocals and serious take on a typically fun and goofy song.

TK004 - Cheerleader: New Daze/Do What You Want (Clear Vinyl/325)

Hartford, Connecticut duo Donovan Rex and Max Friday make up Cheerleader and their 7" features upbeat melodies, hand-clap rhythms and a slight lo-fi production. Both tracks are solid with "Do What You Want" being previously unreleased. This is a band I am looking forward hearing some new material hopefully sometime this year.

Turntable Kitchen Website
Turntable Kitchen Facebook

Motel Beds Website
Evenings Website
Steffaloo Website
Cheerleader Website

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Steve Adamyk Band: Forever Won't Wait

2012-01-09T07:00:00.004-05:00

The Steve Adamyk Band
Forever Won't Wait
Dirtnap Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Wake up 2012 with the solid punk rock sophomore outing from The Steve Adamyk Band!

Album Review:
In the past it seemed like I always had a good new punk album within reach but over the years that ease of access has miserably dwindled. That of course doesn't mean that quality punk rock is not still out there but you do need to dig a bit deeper. Well in the case of The Steve Adamyk Band you need to look North as the bunch of self proclaimed obnoxious and rowdy, “kids” hail from Ottawa, Ontario. Forever Won't Wait is the groups sophomore album that packs a powerful and punchy rock that comes at you fast and catchy over a mere 22 minutes. Songs like "Election Day" are gritty and no nonsense punked out while "Landslide" starts off with a soloing guitar before its group vocal lines and harmonized chorus that embraces pop punk with a feverish edge. All of these elements combine for an insanely musical tight record that ends with a perfect cover of The Dickies "X-Eyed Tammy" and a need to reach for the repeat button. Do yourself a favor to kick 2012 off right - seek out The Steve Adamyk Band and get back on board with the still alive and kicking punk scene!

Key Tracks: "Landslide", "Election Day", "Never Wake Up"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The New Rochelles
Ramones
New Bomb Turks

The Steve Adamyk Band Website
The Steve Adamyk Band Facebook
Dirtnap Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Of Monsters And Men: Into The Woods [EP]

2012-01-09T06:59:00.009-05:00

Of Monsters And Men
Into The Woods [EP]
Universal Republic Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Into The Woods EP offers up strong support for a spring debut to check out from Iceland's Of Monsters And Men.

Album Review:
My guess is that Iceland's Of Monsters And Men will start gaining some hype here in early 2012 based on the strength of this four song EP. We first heard of this six piece indie group last summer as "Little Talks" kicked off the catchy compilation Made In Iceland IV (2011) which also featured FM Belfast, Sing Fang and Soley.

Their debut, My Head Is An Animal, is set to release this spring and based on each track here, Of Monsters And Men will swing for the fences with their epic songs inspired by their tantalizing homeland. The group takes a very collective approach to music that is a bit like an Arcade Fire style except that Of Monsters And Men have the infectious vocals of Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir leading the way with her siren voice while co-singer Ragnar "Raggi" Þórhallsson supplies a nice male balance vocally to the group.

Not sure if the debut can live up to the upbeat quality of the Into The Woods EP but Of Monsters And Men's big sounding folkie pop most certainly will catch some ears and possibly will take over some airwaves.

Key Tracks: "Little Talks", "From Finner", "Six Weeks"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Arcade Fire
The Head And The Heart

Of Monsters And Men Website
Of Monsters And Men Facebook
Universal Republic Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Spectrals: Bad Penny

2012-01-06T07:00:00.005-05:00

Spectrals
Bad Penny
Slumberland Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Spectrals offers up a solid debut of indie croon that will win you over.

Album Review:
Bad Penny is the debut album from 21 year old Louis Jones aka Spectrals. Hailing from the UK, Spectrals offers a bit of everything here with pieces of soul, doo wop, pop and garage while paying homage to many of his influences, such as The Rolling Stones, The Style Council and Elvis Costello. If you have been tapped into Spectrals earlier singles leading up to the Bad Penny debut you might be a bit surprised as the record loses some of his previous fuzz and lo-fi compositions. What you do still get here is plenty of his fused 50's and 60's crooning swagger that still has a forward thinking and modern indie vibe. This laid back approach works well upon repeat listens and tracks like the more rocking "Big Baby" will instantly grab your attention. The real challenge with Spectrals is making sure that you give it time because most tracks are a grower and at only 30 minutes, Bad Penny is very easy to absorb again. This solid debut from Spectrals is well worth the investment and given Jones young age, I am sure there are even better things to come!

Key Tracks: "Big Baby", "Confetti", "Get A Grip"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Youth Lagoon
Atlas Sound
Real Estate

Spectrals Website
Spectrals Facebook
Slumberland Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The White Album: The Album

2012-01-05T07:00:00.004-05:00

The White Album
The Album
Self-Released [2011]

Fire Note Says: A band to watch in 2012!

Album Review:
I must tell you that a Google search for this band or album title will lead to much frustration but after you discover Copenhagen's The White Album, much of that will be forgiven. The Danish trio present a 6 song record that has its own blend of folk meets indie rock which both floats along peacefully on tracks like "Fall At Will" while possessing a quiet building momentum on the memorable "Guns And Ammunition".

The Album packs tons of ideas into its almost 19 minute running time that results in a cohesive effort and highlights The White Album's future potential. All three members have a superb vocal talent and when they work together the layered harmonies take The Album to the next level.

Not sure if 2012 will bring a full length from The White Album but after this solid release we are keeping our fingers crossed!

Key Tracks: "Guns And Ammunition", "December", "Fall At Will"

Bands With Similar Fire:
David Bazan
Fleet Foxes
Bon Iver

The White Album Website
The White Album Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Trent Reznor | Atticus Ross: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Soundtrack

2012-01-05T06:59:00.006-05:00

Trent Reznor | Atticus Ross
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Soundtrack
Mute Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: This soundtrack will give your speakers and headphones new meaning!

Album Review:
Not sure if I would have ever predicted that Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross would be Oscar award winning soundtrack composers but here we are on the duo's follow up to The Social Network (2010) with the highly anticipated thriller The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. The movie itself fits Reznor's historical Nine Inch Nails edge, as does the movie's producer David Fincher. In fact, I can't imagine Fincher picking anyone else now after the success these three have had as the music here really does improve the film and give it an eerie pulse. The entire soundtrack spans three hours over 39 songs and starts and stops with cover songs. The opening track is a wicked take on Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song" that features Yeah Yeah Yeah's Karen O. Hard beats and scorching synthesizers gives new life to the classic and is the perfect companion to the opening credits. The intensity and mood found on the instrumentals stand tall on their own and after seeing the film you will have even more appreciation for the soundtrack. Sonically the record is a winner as slow tempos become crazed and feverish before toning back down into the next track. You really can't imagine the music here coming from anyone else but Reznor and Ross. The closing song is a cover of Bryan Ferry’s “Is Your Love Strong Enough?” by Reznor’s band with his wife, How To Destroy Angels. This deconstructed track comes off completely new and I am sure most who hear it will never put the pieces together. This is a good thing as it represents a solid ending to one wild ride. I am usually not into instrumental soundtracks but The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo exceeded my expectations and works well with headphones and without!

Collector's Note: There is a large six LP vinyl deluxe package available that is limited to 3,000 copies that also includes a book with a metal cover in a hard plastic “ice” slip cover, an exclusive custom 8 gig metal razor blade USB pendant containing the full album in high-fidelity 96k audio, and a fold-out poster by Neil Kellerhouse. If that wasn't all, each copy comes signed by Reznor and Ross!

Key Tracks: "Immigrant Song", "Oraculum", "While Waiting"

Trent Reznor | Atticus Ross Tattoo Website
Mute Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Office Of Future Plans: Office Of Future Plans

2012-01-04T07:00:00.005-05:00

Office Of Future Plans
Office Of Future Plans
Dischord Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: J. Robbins returns with another band of top notch indie rock!

Album Review:
J. Robbins and angular indie rock go hand and hand and just like some of his earlier groups, Jawbox, Burning Airlines, and Channels, Office Of Future Plans brings together a talented group of musicians and provides a solid 40 minute listen. At 44, you might think Robbins would go in a different direction but Office Of Future Plans brings his instantly recognizable vocals right at you while supplying swirling guitar harmonics that form the edgy song structures. Office Of Future Plans does have its own identity, as the songs possess an undertone of maturity that comes with experience, contains quick tempo changes that are complimented by strings and has plenty of soaring vocals from Robbins that go from 1 to 10 and back again in seconds. Basically, if you have been a fan of any of J. Robbins work, Office Of Future Plans is a must listen. If you are new to his output then not only will this record be a great introduction but then you should immediately head back to Jawbox and start your lesson!

Key Tracks: "The Loyal Opposition", "The Beautiful Barricades", "Harden Your Heart"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Jawbox
On
The Dismemberment Plan

Jawbox: For Your Own Special Sweetheart [Reissue] [Fire Note Review 11/25/09]

Office Of Future Plans Website
Office Of Future Plans Facebook
Dischord Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Ty Segall: Goodbye Bread

2012-01-04T06:59:00.010-05:00

Ty Segall
Goodbye Bread
Drag City Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Ty Segall emerges into a stellar singer-songwriter role on Goodbye Bread!

Album Review:
A good way to describe Ty Segall's music is to take some of your favorite classic garage rock bands and picture their lead singers going it solo with the same swagger and slightly fuzzed up vocal without the power backing instruments. Segall proudly stands tall on his Drag City LP debut Goodbye Bread that offers up a different musical side compared to his earlier work that features slower tempos and a bit more polished and focused sound. A directional change of this nature could blow up in other artists face but Segall thrives under this format and embraces the singer-songwriter roll with every pulsing riff and delivered line. Segall plays all the instruments on Goodbye Bread himself and to some, the warm guitars and use of melody stray from Segall's norm but that is the exciting part about this record. Goodbye Bread showcases another level of talent from Segall that only gets better upon repeat listens and raises the anticipation for what he does next!

Key Tracks: "Goodbye Bread", "My Head Explodes", "Where Your Head Goes"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Jay Reatard
Skip Spence
Dax Riggs

Ty Segall Website
Ty Segall Facebook
Drag City Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Gifted Children: The Portable Sun [EP]

2012-01-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

The Gifted Children
The Portable Sun [EP]
Tinhorn Planet Music [2011]

Fire Note Says: Another solid recording in the very large catalog of The Gifted Children!

Album Review:
The Portable Sun was the third EP release of 2011 from one of our favorite Western New York bands The Gifted Children. Its eight tracks follow the standard GC style of getting in and getting out as they fall short of even hitting a two minute average. Of course, don't let the lack of time fool you for a lack of substance, as The Portable Sun represents some of The Gifted Children's best ideas yet. The EP itself was recorded using the built-in microphone on an iPhone and an app called Multitrack, which is of interest only because you could never tell given the tracks warm vibrant depth. This translates into a likable listen that offers smoldering song highlights like "Dark Heart" that creeps along with piano and vocal lines before exploding into a fuzz bass and saxophone assault. "The Short Sugar" has an upbeat pop swagger to it that is an instant favorite with its group singalong moments while the mostly acoustic 59 second "Lie Detectors" still is able to trigger an emotional chord. Once again, The Gifted Children prove their talent here on the extremely cohesive Portable Sun EP. The band already has a busy 2012 release schedule planned and their annual Christmas album has been available for free since December, so if you are looking for something new to discover - do yourself a favor and check out The Gifted Children!

Key Tracks: "Dark Heart", "The Short Sugar", "Lie Detectors"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Matt Pond PA
Destroyer
Graham Repulski

The Gifted Children: Building Your Lo-Fi Shelter [5-CD Box Set] [Fire Note Review 9/29/10]
The Gifted Children: My Museum Pieces [Fire Note Review 10/28/09]
The Gifted Children: Always Stay Sweet [Fire Note Review 10/10/08]
The Gifted Children: Whitespace Differences [Fire Note Review 4/11/08]

The Gifted Children Website
The Gifted Children Facebook
Tinhorn Planet Music

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Lennings: Sampler

2012-01-03T06:59:00.006-05:00

The Lennings
Sampler
Self-Released [2010]

Fire Note Says: Watch out for The Lennings in 2012!

Album Review:
Austin band The Lennings crept onto our radar late last year during some midnight Internet roaming. This sampler record is a solid 8 song collection of the bands work that almost entirely pulls from their previous recordings Big Beige Car [2007] and Geographic Tongue EP [2009]. This album also adds their stellar acoustic cover of the Grease classic "You're The One That I Want", which is an instant favorite with its laid back swagger and heartfelt approach. The Lennings successfully blend their Americana geography roots with an indie pop delivery that works on both electric and acoustic fronts. The band is set to release a new album here in 2012, so as you wait for the new material I completely recommend this compilation as the perfect introduction!

Key Tracks: "Section C", "You're The One That I Want", "Hat"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Wilco
Age Rings
Gomez

The Lennings Website
The Lennings Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Blazing Top 50 of 2011: 10 to 1 [Day 5]

2011-12-16T07:00:00.012-05:00

Drum Roll...

#10
The War On Drugs
Slave Ambient
Secretly Canadian Records [2011]

The War On Drugs sophomore album Slave Ambient was the perfect record to take on long drives because it put your mind at ease so that you can concentrate on the road but just block everything else out that seems like noise, such as bills, relationships and work. The record's magic comes from the group sounding like a new pairing of Dylan with Spiritualized or Spaceman 3 fronted by Tom Petty. The War On Drugs created an album that had a seamless flow and improved every time you spun it. Slave Ambient was an album that absorbed you for its entire 47 minutes and had you coming away feeling rejuvenated and ready to take it for another ride!

The War On Drugs: Slave Ambient [Fire Note Review 8/24/11]

#9
Smith Westerns
Dye It Blonde
Fat Possum Records [2011]

We called it all the back in early January but Chicago's Smith Westerns sophomore record Dye It Blonde turned out to be one of better releases this year even though many probably forgot about it. The band came at you with a slightly lo-fi indie dream rock but had many surprises as they injected elements of early 70's British invasion and a touch of glam. The band was able to morph song structures in an instance while switching from a conventional pace to soaring feverish guitars. Dye It Blonde was a record that just got better and better after every spin and sounds just as fresh at the end of the year as it did in the beginning. A great record to seek out now if you missed it!

Smith Westerns: Dye It Blonde [Fire Note Review 1/14/11]

#8
Wild Flag
Wild Flag
Merge Records [2011]

I love it when a record releases and it is everything you hoped for and then some. This is how I felt after hearing the debut from female four piece Wild Flag. The band brought a plethora of experience to the party with Sleater-Kinney guitarist/singer Carrie Brownstein and drummer Janet Weiss, singer/guitarist Mary Timony of Helium fame and keyboardist Rebecca Cole of The Minders, which were part of the Elephant Six family. It would have been easy for Wild Flag to recreate past glories but they succeed here in finding their own sound that is gracefully loud and catchy. Many times a group of this nature has problems sounding like one unit but Wild Flag not only sounded all on the same page but released a debut that felt like we should have called them the next big thing, except they already were!

Wild Flag: Wild Flag [Fire Note Review 9/9/11]

#7
Atlas Sound
Parallax
4AD Records [2011]

Bradford Cox kept his hot streak alive with the stellar release of Parallax that represented the third album from Atlas Sound. The Deerhunter frontman ventured down different areas of the rock path here but as a very complete and cohesive listen. The record showcased Cox's talents as he inflicted a very modern Bowie vocal style in places while at other times floated and swirled synthesizers much like a laid back Radiohead. The final element that put Parallax in the top was how Cox shifted his vocals from being buried in previous album efforts to taking the lead here and being right out in front. This made each song infectious, memorable and a perfect record to spin again!

Atlas Sound: Parallax [Fire Note Review 11/14/11]

#6
St. Vincent
Strange Mercy
4AD Records [2011]

Strange Mercy was the third record from Annie Clark's St. Vincent and it once again presented a mesmerizing piece of musical art. It was a record that held an earthy gracefulness on each song that also had their individual dimensions and depth. Clark's vocals are flawless throughout and when they are paired with the electro-jazz, fuzz feedback, and simple pop structures of the record everything becomes memorable. On Strange Mercy, St. Vincent presents a statement loud and clear that she is not just an artist to respect but an artist that should be followed!

St. Vincent: Strange Mercy [Fire Note Review 9/19/11]

#5
Real Estate
Days
Domino Records [2011]

Real Estate not only avoided the sophomore slump but surpassed their excellent debut with the infectious Days! Simplistic splendor was one way to describe the sophomore full length from New Jersey's Real Estate as the album had a pure flow to it that carried the listener from track to track. Days was an album that was tighter, more refined, and full of graceful pop gems while possessing a timeless appeal that ultimately won in this near perfect album!

Real Estate: Days [Fire Note Review 11/10/11]

#4
Bon Iver
Bon Iver
Jagjaguwar Records [2011]

Like his debut, Justin Vernon's Bon Iver sophomore record was an album to just let play and listen as its majestic sounds unfolded before your ears. Bon Iver is a record that avoided any chances of the second album slump by maintaining Vernon's signature soft falsetto vocals but a noticeable incremental growth and expansion could be heard within each track. Bon Iver was a true grower, as it was not as immediate grabbing as For Emma but now holds its own. Justin Vernon is a master of time and space and on Bon Iver sometimes what you can't hear is just as important as the notes being pumped into your headphone!

Bon Iver: Bon Iver [Fire Note Review 6/20/11]

#3
Fleet Foxes
Helplessness Blues
Sub Pop Records [2011]

Fleet Foxes created a brilliant sophomore outing in Helplessness Blues that showcased their growth lyrically and musically. The band offered a much more complexity to their song structures that found several tracks crossing the five minute mark and the stunning eight minute piece of art "The Shrine/An Argument". Helplessness Blues now challenges the Fleet Foxes debut as being their best but there is no dispute that both represent superior quality. This album is successful from beginning to end and firmly places the Fleet Foxes into a league of their own!

Fleet Foxes: Helplessness Blues [Fire Note Review 5/4/11]

#2
PJ Harvey

Let England Shake

Vagrant Records [2011]

I have followed PJ Harvey for some time now but had no idea what to expect from her eighth solo record Let England Shake. PJ Harvey always has walked to a different beat and absolutely never makes the same album twice but on Let England Shake she fulfills the givens but exceeds expectations in the songwriting department. The record features her heart, mind and soul poured into every minute as its songs put England in her crosshairs and explore its political interactions and involvement with the rest of the world. Musically, Let England Shake emphasized what Harvey is best at, which is making an intense rock record without sounding like an intense rock record. She used her full range throughout the record and kept the listener completely tuned into what was going on. Let England Shake held up extremely well to repeat plays and once again showed why PJ Harvey is one of a kind with one of the best releases this year!

PJ Harvey: Let England Shake [Fire Note Review 2/14/11]

#1
Girls
Father, Son, Holy Ghost
True Panther Sounds [2011]

Releasing one great record is every bands dream. Following it up with a stellar EP is icing on the cake. Making a sophomore record that surpasses an already great debut is almost impossible but that is exactly what happened with San Francisco's Girls on their modern classic Father, Son, Holy Ghost. The album from beginning to end felt and sounded like it was in your collection for years. The eleven songs honor mega artists like Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, Fleetwood Mac, Beach Boys and Paul Simon with its smooth classic rock vibe, while holding its progressive own in 2011 and staying completely modern. Father, Son, Holy Ghost plays like a champion and most certainly will sound great for some time, as its timeless appeal and addictive qualities are some of the solid reasons this record sits at the top of 2011!

Girls: Father, Son, Holy Ghost [Fire Note Review 9/14/11]

Well that is it for 2011. Feel free to post some of your own top albums this year - we would love to see them. Have a great holiday and we will see you on January 3rd for our first review in 2012. The Fire Note will be somewhat active on its Facebook page so be sure to hop over and check it out.

Thanks again for all the support in 2011 and helping make The Fire Note a success for another year!

The Blazing Top 50 of 2011: 20 to 11 [Day 4]

2011-12-15T07:00:00.012-05:00

Almost There...

#20
EMA
Past Life Martyred Saints
Souterrain Transmissions Records [2011]

EMA was the new project from ex-Gowns singer/guitarist Erika M. Anderson and her debut record, Past Life Martyred Saints, possessed a quiet intensity that won you over within the first minute of the 7 minute opening track. EMA provided a very unique listen on Past Life Martyred Saints, that not only made it special but stellar as she successfully built walls of sound around her in and out vocals, while still allowing guitar to take the lead. This creativity made Past Life Martyred Saints a debut record that most certainly was one of the top releases this year!

EMA: Past Life Martyred Saints [Fire Note Review 5/12/11]

#19
Destroyer
Kaputt
Merge Records [2011]

Over the years Dan Bejar has been involved in some really great projects but Destroyer has always been his solo baby and his ninth record Kaputt represented one of his best. The album was mature, complex, poetic, jazzy, and addictive all wrapped into a 9 song, 50 minute affair. Kaputt was all about the story, which dictated each and every memorable moment. Kaputt was another exceptional record from Destroyer, as Dan Bejar's talent shines brightly again and although its standout sound may not be for everyone it certainly should be respected and rightfully earned its place in the Top 50!

Destroyer: Kaputt [Fire Note Review 1/25/11]

#18
Cymbals Eat Guitars
Lenses Alien
Barsuk Records [2011]

Trying to follow up a highly praised debut is always a steep climb but against the usual tough odds, Cymbals Eat Guitars made it happen with the infectious Lenses Alien. What I really liked about Lenses Alien is that it absolutely did not try to be anything special but with ease, Cymbals Eat Guitars altered song structures on a whim and created a stylistic piece of indie rock that not only avoided the sophomore slump but drove Lenses Alien into the Top 50.

Cymbals Eat Guitars: Lenses Alien [Fire Note Review 9/12/11]

#17
Panda Bear
Tomboy
Paw Tracks Records [2011]

If you have followed along at all with Noah "Panda Bear" Lennox's musical career, then you were already impressed with his indie savvy and critically hailed records with both Animal Collective and his own solo work with Panda Bear. On Tomboy, his fourth, the streak continued, as he took his typical more arty psychedelia reverb approach to music and brought it ever so close to the indie mainstream without giving up any of his inner core. Panda Bear has the ability and smarts to push the music here to the brim, while still retaining the listener with layered harmonies and spectacular walls of sound. It all cultivated into Panda Bear's most accessible record to date!

Panda Bear: Tomboy [Fire Note Review 4/12/11]

#16
Sloan
The Double Cross
Yep Roc Records [2011]

Sloan celebrated 20 years of stylistic power pop this year and put an exclamation point on the feat with their excellent (and maybe best) 10th album The Double Cross! The record once again embraced the songwriting and lead vocal rotation from all four members, while never suffering from lack of cohesion. In fact, The Double Cross plays great as one 33 minute listen with plenty of power pop rock harmonies, thoughtful acoustic numbers and creative transitions. Sloan proved that they are still at the top of their game after 20 years of making music and with the ability to create catchy tunes like the ones found on The Double Cross they easily have another twenty in them!

Sloan: The Double Cross [Fire Note Review 5/5/11]

#15
The Black Keys
El Camino
Nonesuch Records [2011]

El Camino comes off like the bad ass twin sister compared to last year's critically hailed Brothers [2010] album from The Black Keys but that turned out to be a great thing. The record is much more musically focused while relying on a fun, catchy and rowdy tempo to completely take over your brain after just one listen. It is the bands 7th album and one of their most rocking records to date and is still getting plenty of play since it just released here in December but is easily worthy of the coveted number 15 spot because it just keeps getting better after each spin!

The Black Keys: El Camino [Fire Note Review 12/5/11]

#14
The Features
Wilderness
Serpents And Snakes/ Bug Music [2011]

There is something to always be said about good ol' honest rock n roll and Nashville's The Features third full length, Wilderness, was all about it! The album did not throw new tricks at you but instead revisited what has worked for others in the past and executed those pieces to perfection. Wilderness has big memorable hooks, pounding drums, crowd participating hand claps, solid story lyrics and an indie spirit that drove these eleven rockers. The Features are a band that simply gets it and Wilderness was not only their best album to date - it was one of the best rock records released this year!

The Features: Wilderness [Fire Note Review 7/27/11]

#13
Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
Scandalous
Lost Highway Records [2011]

On his sophomore album Scandalous, Black Joe Lewis once again showed that he is an expert at mixing classic soul with the attitude of a Detroit garage rocker. When you toss in the horn section, background singers, excellent musicians and a confident cocky attitude - you automatically achieve a Black Joe record that will make your day. Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears posses the perfect flare of classic meets progressive and Scandalous is timeless fun for everyone that tunes in!

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears: Scandalous [Fire Note Review 3/16/11]

#12
The Twilight Singers
Dynamite Steps
Sub Pop Records [2011]

Former Afghan Whig, Greg Dulli returned with another edgy and soulful Twilight Singers record that was an exciting dramatic ride. Dynamite Steps represented a completely rejuvenated frontman, that in places actually reminded you more of the Whigs catalog then the previous Twilight Singers output. Like so many of his other recordings, Dynamite Steps was a true grower and it just got better with every Greg Dulli croon. It was a record you just knew was solid from the opening line as each dark brooding track grew with intensity and rocked out with emotional explosions. Dynamite Steps represented exactly what The Twilight Singers are all about and you wouldn't have wanted it any other way!

The Twilight Singers: Dynamite Steps [Fire Note Review 2/11/11]

#11
Boston Spaceships
Let It Beard
Guided By Voices Inc. [2011]

Pollard, Slusarenko, and Moen contemplated the sorry state of rock and roll and went out on a high note with the massively excellent 75 minute double album Let It Beard! Of course it was bummer to hear that the group was no longer going to record but after taking on Let It Beard's 26 tracks of big ideas, guest contributors, horns, strings, keyboards and memorable musical gems you realize that it is the essential closing chapter to a great group. It also goes without saying that Let It Beard sounded stronger after each successive play and should now be considered an automatic listen when checking out Bob's collaboration catalog!

Boston Spaceships: Let It Beard [Fire Note Review 8/1/11]

The Blazing Top 50 of 2011: 30 to 21 [Day 3]

2011-12-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

Next...

#30
Cut Copy
Zonoscope
Modular Records [2011]

Right from the confident kick off track "Need You Know" to the closing 15 minute epic disco beat romp of "Sun God", Cut Copy set out to entertain on their third long player Zonoscope. The band was able to rely on their pulsing synthesizers, swaying lyrics and spot on melodies to make each track memorable here but absolutely do not let song boundaries get in the way. They can package a great song in 6 minute or 3 and Zonoscope soared because of it making this a stellar output in a very rich and rewarding catalog!

Cut Copy: Zonoscope [Fire Note Review 2/8/11]

#29
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Bag
Joyful Noise Recordings [2011]

Bloomington, Indiana trio Sleeping Bag instantly bring brought back great memories of 90's indie rock on their self-titled debut with their fractured song structures, exploding melodies and laid back delivery. "Slime" was one of my favorite rock tracks this year as Sleeping Bag successfully recreated a sound that has almost disappeared in the current music scene, so not only does their debut sound fresh for a younger generation today it represents the perfect bridge that should capture a wide audience which has been following this sound for a long time - and wishing it would return!

Sleeping Bag: Sleeping Bag [Fire Note Review 8/5/11]

#28
Fucked Up
David Comes To Life
Matador Records [2011]

I can admit that hardcore punk is probably not my number one genre but Canada's Fucked Up is not your typical punk band and their new long player, David Comes To Life, was not your typical hardcore punk album. In fact this record probably was one of the more unique listens there was all year. The album itself was based on a loose concept and ran a whopping 78 minutes long and featured 12 of its 18 tracks crossing the 4 minute mark. David Comes To Life was uncharted territory in the post-hardcore world and Fucked Up have now just drawn the map!

Fucked Up: David Comes To Life [Fire Note Review 6/6/11]

#27
Youth Lagoon
The Year Of Hibernation
Fat Possum Records [2011]

Youth Lagoon is the project of 22-year-old musician Trevor Powers from Boise, Idaho that brings all of the elements you love about home recordings and then was able to win you over with his style. The Year Of Hibernation has big sprawling choruses, vocals drenched in reverb and mostly hushed tracks that explode with sound. All of this made Youth Lagoon a standout from an ever growing genre and The Year Of Hibernation turned out to be one of the best records we heard this year!

Youth Lagoon: The Year Of Hibernation [Fire Note Review 11/15/11]

#26
Arctic Monkeys
Suck It And See
Domino Records [2011]

Suck It And See (means "give it a try" in English terms) is the fourth record from the Arctic Monkeys and featured the most lyrically mature material the band had recorded, while the music also felt and sounded more focused, reserved and fragile. The album may have been missed by some as it missed that one big single but plenty of tracks on Suck It And See had a nice slow burn and after a multitude of listens this album easily landed in our Top 50!

Arctic Monkeys: Suck It And See [Fire Note Review 6/13/11]

#25
Yuck
Yuck
Fat Possum Records [2011]

Forming little over a year ago, the UK's Yuck rode tons of hype across seas this year with their throwback indie rock of the 90's mixed with swaying Brit-pop for catchy results! There were feverish guitar driven tracks with distorted vocals and a little reverb, while other songs had a much more plodding demeanor and soaring hooks. It was a blend that could of backfired but Yuck pulled it off here with an extreme amount of confidence for such a young band and never once put the listener off with either style.

Yuck: Yuck [Fire Note Review 2/11/11]

#24
The Seedy Seeds
Verb Noun
Eurodorable Records [2011]

What I have always liked about Cincinnati's Seedy Seeds is their unique blending combination of electronic beats with banjo, strings and the warmest vocal harmonies this side of the Ohio River. The trio's third record, Verb Noun, continued this same mix with both precision and focus. The Seedy Seeds have the ability to turn on the fun charm, build instrument intensity and grab you around every catchy hook as Verb Noun became more infectious with every rotation it received!

The Seedy Seeds: Verb Noun [Fire Note Review 4/11/11]

#23
The Decemberists
The King Is Dead
EMI/Capitol Records [2011]

After The Decemberists last two cerebral concept full lengths, the band took a leisurely breathe of fresh air and shifted musical direction on the groups sixth album The King Is Dead. This record was extremely loose and simple that focused on an indie Americana sound with strong songwriting and memorable choruses, much like an early R.E.M.. The results were stellar, as The King Is Dead was an enjoyable listen from start to finish that had plenty of replay value and once again shined a bright light on the talented Decemberists!

The Decemberists: The King Is Dead [Fire Note Review 1/20/11]

#22
Kurt Vile
Smoke Ring For My Halo
Matador Records [2011]

Philadelphia's Kurt Vile presented such a swagger on his fourth full length, Smoke Ring For My Halo, that he made everyone think that playing the guitar was just plain easy. This record was completely laid back and slackerish, all the way to Vile's simplistic delivery but that is where he captured your ear. Smoke Ring For My Halo was a progression from his earlier more lo-fi bedroom recordings while still featuring Vile's vocals maintaining their composure with a calmness that did not match the tempo but it totally worked. Vile is an artist that needs multiple spins to understand and Smoke Ring For My Halo is no different but the album showcased an increased focus on his art that had been missing in his previous efforts and just made this record an enthralling joy!

Kurt Vile: Smoke Ring For My Halo [Fire Note Review 3/8/11]

#21
WU LYF
Go Tell Fire To The Mountain
L Y F Records [2011]

As a critic, I am always looking for a record to wow me with its presence, swagger and replay value. The debut from WU LYF (pronounced "Woo Life" and stands for "World Unite! Lucifer Youth Foundation") met all of the above criteria, as the Manchester, England band captured an addictive and timeless indie rock that completely engulfed your surroundings. It is a record that could be played morning, noon or night, while sounding giant but yet making you feel like the band was in you living room. Go Tell Fire To The Mountain is an irresistible title and WU LYF had you wanting more after just one track with the record's sprawling and engaging song structures that made it one of the better releases this year.!

WU LYF: Go Tell Fire To The Mountain [Fire Note Review 9/7/11]

The Blazing Top 50 of 2011: 40 to 31 [Day 2]

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Let's Keep It Rolling....

#40
Russian Circles
Empros
Sargent House Records [2011]

The Russian Circles fourth LP, Empros, pushed the pedal back down for an instrumental sonic visceral noise attack that combined big metal rock and slick layered grooves. Empros may be a bit different from what you typically listen to but it is a great piece of work and Russian Circles best record to date!

Russian Circles: Empros [Fire Note Review 10/26/11]

#39
tUnE-yArDs
w h o k i l l
4AD Records [2011]

tUnE-yArDs, aka Merrill Garbus, sophomore record whokill crossed genres, defied expectations and offered something that you have never quite heard before. whokill successfully blended jazz, Afro-pop, funk, rock, R&B, house and folk into one complete and complex experience that offered peaks, valleys and plenty of artistic statements that propelled this record into our Top 50!

tUnE-yArDs: w h o k i l l [Fire Note Review 4/20/11]

#38
I Build Collapsible Mountains
The Spectator & The Act
Burning Building Recordings [2011]

Earlier in the year, we raved about the self-titled EP from Scotland's I Build Collapsible Mountains so when his debut, The Spectator & The Act, hit in October we were super excited to hear nothing changed except offering a fresh 11 tracks which showed that the EP was no fluke. In the current sea of singer-songwriter albums, I Build Collapsible Mountains stands tall and hopefully will still find an audience, as it is a record of honesty, experiences and memorable lines that should be heard!

I Build Collapsible Mountains: The Spectator & The Act [Fire Note Review 10/14/11]

#37
The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart
Belong
Slumberland Records [2011]

Louder, bolder and brighter was the perfect description for the sophomore effort, Belong, from indie darlings The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart. The band polished their indie pop reverb up a bit with a much more straightforward musical approach that featured some of the bands most ferocious guitar work yet and showcased a talent that is not going away anytime soon and should provide some spectacular records in the future!

The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart: Belong [Fire Note Review 4/1/11]

#36
Kate Bush
50 Words For Snow
ANTI- Records [2011]

50 Words For Snow is a perfect example of why Kate Bush is so highly regarded, as the record is daunting, gorgeous, grandiose and mesmerizing. Just by length alone, its 7 tracks run a whopping 65 minutes as it weaves its mystical stories about hunting for the abominable snowman or a ghost that searchers for her dog. Now matter how you spin it Kate Bush is completely unique in all the best ways and 50 Words For Snow is the excellent proof!

Kate Bush: 50 Words For Snow [Fire Note Review 11/30/11]

#35
Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks
Mirror Traffic
Matador Records [2011]

On Mirror Traffic, Stephen Malkmus found a nice balance of honoring his Pavement days while still progressing sonically with the Jicks. Mirror Traffic had plenty of infused "Pavement" moments while Malkmus sharp tongue was at full force. Mirror Traffic had a noticeable sophisticated song structure, courtesy of the Jicks, that separates this work out along with its 50 minute running time. For old school Pavement fans that have never quite got on board with Malkmus's solo work - Mirror Traffic just might be the record to get them back into the fold!

Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks: Mirror Traffic [Fire Note Review 8/19/11]

#34
Radiohead
The King Of Limbs
Self-Released [2011]

In typical Radiohead fashion, the band announced early in the February week that their new record The King Of Limbs was not only completed but that it would be released on that Saturday. Everyone received the album at the same time which was cool and even after what I thought was somewhat rushed review, The King Of Limbs holds up well as another stellar release from the band. The record was not a guitar album like some had craved, but with repeat listens it became more mesmerizing and morphing that took on different personalities depending on when and how you listened to it. This was the Radiohead you wanted - it just took longer to figure out!

Radiohead: The King Of Limbs [Fire Note Review 2/22/11]

#33
The New Rochelles
It's New!
Bright & Barrow Records [2011]

The New Rochelles, It's New! was an absolute blast of whip-smart, sharp-tongued and musical tight kick ass punk rock that made you think it was 1974 again! The record was only twelve tracks in just over 14 minutes but in that short amount of time, Ronnie, Ricky and Rookie Rochelle delivered a memorable pop-punk lesson in what this genre has always been about - second verse is same as the first!

The New Rochelles: It's New! [Fire Note Review 10/6/11]

#32
Iceage
New Brigade
What's Your Rupture? Records [2011]

Iceage is a quartet made up of 18 and 19 year-olds from Denmark that play a style of punk which sounds well beyond their years. I don't know if Iceage is the salvation of punk but New Brigade sounded really fresh, current and hip. With its tight song structures and quick rotation, this record rips through your speakers and then will do it again!

Iceage: New Brigade [Fire note Review 7/5/11]

#31
Foo Fighters
Wasting Light
RCA Records [2011]

Foo Fighters, Wasting Light was produced by Butch Vig, mixed by Alan Moulder, recorded entirely on analog tape in a garage, had the return of past Foo Fighter member Pat Smear, features guest appearance from Bob Mould (Hüsker Dü) and Krist Novoselic (Nirvana) and easily was the best record the Foo Fighters have released since The Colour And The Shape! Hands down, Wasting Light was one of the best rock records of the year, as it just gets better after every spin and found the Foo Fighters rediscovering a killer attitude and snarl that drove Dave Grohl and the band with an intensity and unpredictability to their music that was completely exciting!

Foo Fighters: Wasting Light [Fire Note Review 4/14/11]

The Blazing Top 50 of 2011: 50 to 41 [Day 1]

2011-12-12T07:00:00.015-05:00

Only a few rules here at The Fire Note for an album to be in our Top 50:

The album was released in 2011.
Only full lengths make the cut.
We had to review it.

We officially present The Fire Note Top 50 of 2011 - Happy Holidays!

#50
Timber Timbre
Creep On Creepin' On
Arts & Crafts Records [2011]

Goth rockabilly blues is a unique genre but singer Taylor Kirk makes it proud with Timbre Timbre's Creep On Creepin' On. The strolling numbers on this album were all eerily off key but completely addicting. Timbre Timbre is a unique artist with an unique listen as it won its way right into our Top 50.

Timber Timbre: Creep On Creepin' On [Fire Note Review 3/31/11]

#49

Tim Easton
Beat The Band (w/ The Freelan Barons)
Since 1966, Volume 1
Campfire Propaganda Records [2011]

Tim Easton has always been one of our favorite singer/songwriters and he co-released two excellent records this year. Beat The Band found Tim Easton recording his first independent record since 1998 and also his first with his touring band The Freelan Barons. The second release from Tim Easton was the primarily solo acoustic record Since 1966, Volume 1. Both albums once again proved he is one of the best under the radar artists out there!

Tim Easton: Beat The Band | Since 1966, Volume 1 [Fire Note Review 5/9/11]

#48
Motel Beds
Tango Boys
No More Fake Labels [2011]

Dayton, Ohio band the Motel Beds just released their new record Tango Boys here in December but it has already been a favorite at the Note with its indie rock swagger. The album blends different genres with its unique mix of lo-fi, hi-fi and classic British Invasion indie rock that presents itself in a nicely compact 34 minutes and features an excellent collaboration with fellow Daytonian Kelley Deal (Breeders).

Motel Beds: Tango Boys [Fire Note Review 12/8/11]

#47
The Vaccines
What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?
Columbia Records [2011]

The Vaccines released one of the best indie rock records this year and were greatly overlooked or dismissed by most. What was missed was The Vaccines energized tracks like "Wreckin' Bar", that hit you with a "ra ra ra" and some straight guitar all packaged into a tight 1:22. This album was easy to keep the volume up and not once lost my attention!

The Vaccines: What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? [Fire Note Review 5/27/11]

#46
Veronica Falls
Veronica Falls
Slumberland Records [2011]

This debut from London's Veronica Falls showcased their knack for pop, reverb and power guitars that all lead to one entertaining listen. Singer/guitarist Roxanne Clifford drives each of the tracks, as her siren like vocals floated above the dueling reverb guitars and gave Veronica Falls a great replay value!

Veronica Falls: Veronica Fall [Fire Note Review 9/28/11]

#45
Israel Nash Gripka
Barn Doors And Concrete Floors
Self-Released [2011]

We introduced you to Americana singer/songwriter Israel Nash Gripka back in 2009 and the exciting news about his sophomore record, Barn Doors And Concrete Floors was that it was even better! Cultivating all the best qualities of a Ryan Adams, John Fogerty and Bruce Springsteen, Gripka presented a very honest and sincere rooted record that was recorded in an old barn nestled deep in the Catskill Mountains and was great from start to finish!

Israel Nash Gripka: Barn Doors And Co ncrete Floors [Fire Note Review 4/6/11]

#44
Circus Devils
CAPSIZED!
Happy Jack Rock Records [2011]

CAPSIZED! from his Circus Devils represented the 9th album from Robert Pollard's long standing band with the talented Tobias brothers, Todd and Tim. With a total of four instrumentals, plenty of mind twisting lyrics, a countless array of mesmerizing soundscapes and plenty of smooth transitions, CAPSIZED! stands up tall as one of the Circus Devils best to date!

Circus Devils: CAPSIZED! [Fire Note Review 10/20/11]

#43
Widowspeak
Widowspeak
Captured Tracks Records [2011]

This Brooklyn trio combined the grace of Mazzy Star with the edge of The Geraldine Fibbers for an infectious debut that featured lead vocalist Molly Hamilton and her talented chords that have both sultry and addictive qualities. The record was a real grower and because of its intimate intricacies became an absolute killer headphone record!

Widowspeak: Widowspeak [Fire Note Review 8/23/11]

#42
Washed Out
Within And Without
Sub Pop Records [2011]

This one-man synthesizer heavy act quickly became one of the leading artists in the new post-shoegaze genre chillwave on their debut Within And Without. I believe it is an album that could easily fit into the background and be under appreciated but if you spend some real time absorbing Washed Out you will experience plenty of great moments within the tracks that make it catchy. This record was proof that if done right a bedroom act can completely shine.

Washed Out: Within And Without [Fire Note Review 7/12/11]

#41
Wilco
The Whole Love
dBpm Records [2011]

The Whole Love represented a true mix of all Wilco's talents and was the first for their own label dBpm. It was an album that relied on both their Americana and experimental past to create one nice cohesive piece of work. At the end of the day, The Whole Love will not ever be hailed as their best work but its consistency was hard to overlook as well as keeping it out of the Top 50.

Wilco: The Whole Love [Fire Note Review 9/28/11]

Guided By Voices: Let's Go Eat The Factory

2011-12-09T07:00:00.016-05:00

Guided By Voices
Let's Go Eat The Factory
Guided By Voices Inc. [2012]

Fire Note Says: Oh yeah, did you hear? Guided By Voices are back!

Album Review:
I can't think of many other upcoming 2012 albums that people have been waiting 15 years to hear, so the new record from the "classic line up" Guided By Voices goes well beyond a highly anticipated status for both longtime club members and kids new to the game. With that type of high hopes, it will certainly arrive with all sorts of critics, so I think it is important to note right away that LGETF is not Bee Thousand [1994] or Alien Lanes [1995] but instead a modern blend of past, present and future Guided By Voices.

Even with all the original boys from Dayton, Ohio back, trying to recreate past glories is an impossible feat to expect and with that said, Let's Go Eat The Factory thrives because of it. Track one serves as your reunion because "Laundry And Lasers" offers the perfect first impression with its feedback filled fuzzed out rocking momentum that quickly builds into a fast wall of sound while Pollard vocally charges ahead through the noise like the band never went away. Of course, "Lasers" only runs a mere 2:38 before your ear is captured on track three with the new GBV classic, "Doughnut For A Snowman", which truly highlights the pop essence of the band, as it shows the world how to package a catchy hook into 20 seconds.

Now, if you have been a faithful listener through the years that includes both later era GBV, Pollard solo material and the multitude of side projects, I am sure there has always been a piece of you that missed the musical input of Tobin Sprout. Let's Go Eat The Factory addresses that history of GBV as Tobin wrote or co-wrote and sings on 6 of the 21 tracks here, while also injecting some new avenues from him as "Spiderfighter" is one of the rowdiest and longest Sprout numbers you have heard before, as it features his singing over a strong beat for the first two minutes before a hard shift into a piano driven 1:35 falsetto finish. The other Sprout tracks on LGETF mostly follow his traditional soft structure and serve as nice changes of pace and balance among the louder material.

The rest of Let's Go Eat The Factory works your ear like the classic records once accomplished by supplying you little pieces of each song that stick with you well after their conclusion. "Hang Mr. Kite" is a fine example of this as it features Pollard's soaring vocals from an echoing above direction which is not only memorable but easily one of my favorite moments on the record. The simple, calm and quiet Pollard repeating of "My Europa" will have you humming along, while the building guitar riff on "God Loves Us" keeps your feet tapping and is instantly recognizable the next time you hear it. The excellent closer, "We Won't Apologize For The Human Race" will have you singing along with its big harmony moment right in the middle of its 4 minute duration and once again skillfully will grab your attention each and every time it comes across your stereo.

All of this leads to the final conclusion on Let's Go Eat The Factory, which is that the record is Guided By Voices down to the core and once again, like their previous earlier outings, what makes the album so special is not so much how the songs stand on their own but how all of the 21 compositions support each other. This not only makes Let's Go Eat The Factory a true GBV record that is a real grower in a traditional sense but already a favorite of 2012!

Key Tracks: "Doughnut For A Snowman", "Hang Mr. Kite", "We Won't Apologize For The Human Race", "Old Bones", "Chocolate Boy", "The Unsinkable Fats Domino"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Superchunk
The Capstan Shafts
Big Star

Guided By Voices: Live In Daytron ?6˚ [Fire Note Review 1/10/11]
Guided By Voices: Suitcase 3 (Up We Go Now) [Fire Note Review 11/2/09]
Guided By Voices: Live From Austin TX: Austin City Limits [Fire Note Review 7/5/07]

Guided By Voices Website
Guided By Voices Facebook
Guided By Voices Inc.

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Kinks: The Kinks In Mono [Box Set]

2011-12-09T06:59:00.012-05:00

The Kinks
The Kinks In Mono [Box Set]
Sanctuary Records [2011]
(10 CD Set)

Fire Note Says: All hail The Kinks presented in mono!

Album Review:
Behind all the great names included in the history of the rock n roll British Invasion I think The Kinks are always one group that sometimes gets overlooked from the era. The Kinks of course are consistently listed as being an influence by a multitude of indie groups but I am still sure that most listeners might still wonder why.

Well, this new box set will help clear up any questions about what The Kinks were all about as it offers up the first seven records presented in their original mono versions, 4 EP's and 2 albums of collectibles that are all neatly packaged and ready for a holiday listening party. This is probably a release that only true fans will check out do to its size and price tag but it is an endeavor well worth the extra, as the recordings sound spectacular in the mono format which was always the intended listening experience.

The Kinks will never be placed ahead of The Beatles, The Who or The Rolling Stones but there is no reason their name can't be talked about at the same level and after spending some time with The Kinks In Mono you won't hesitate that thought for one minute!

The Kinks Website
The Kinks Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Motel Beds: Tango Boys

2011-12-08T07:00:00.006-05:00

Motel Beds
Tango Boys
No More Fake Labels [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Dayton, Ohio music scene is alive and well with the Motel Beds new long player Tango Boys!

Album Review:
Right from the cool indie swagger of the opening minute long intro, "Theme From Tango", you get the sense that Dayton, Ohio's Motel Beds are coming at you with something solid. This track transitions into "Milquetoast Discovery", which greets the listener with frontman Paul John Paslosky's slightly fuzzed up croon that keeps the track swaying and makes it instantly memorable. Over the last year, the Motel Beds have been quickly propelling themselves forward with several stellar CMJ appearances, signing with the North Carolina-based indie label No More Fake Labels and collaborating with fellow Daytonian Kelley Deal (Breeders). This has the band clearly focused on success, which can be heard as it all comes together on Tango Boys. Kelley Deal makes her presence known on album highlight "Tropics Of The Sand", as her instantly recognizable vocals mirror Paslosky's line for line during its smooth tempo which creates an indie duet that has real buzz. "Hopeless" takes you to someplace warm with its Beach Boys type vocals and classic surf guitar vibe while the entire band shines on the catchy "Fake Army" with the stellar drumming of Ian Kaplan leading the charge. Stylistically, Tango Boys blends different genres with its unique mix of lo-fi, hi-fi and classic British Invasion indie rock that combined with its neat 34 minute running time, this release turns into a can't miss from the Motel Beds!

Key Tracks: "Milquetoast Discovery", "Tropics Of The Sand", "Fake Army"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Big Star
Chavez
The Kinks

Motel Beds: Feelings [Fire Note Review 11/30/10]

Motel Beds Website
Motel Beds Facebook
No More Fake Labels

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Robert Pollard: Let It Beard Boombox Demos

2011-12-08T06:59:00.003-05:00

Robert Pollard
Let It Beard Boombox Demos
Needmore Songs [2011]

Fire Note Says: A glimpse into the recording process of Robert Pollard!

Album Review:
I actually wish more artists would put out releases like the Let It Beard Boombox Demos from Robert Pollard. This is a track by track of demos from the excellent Boston Spaceships last record Let It Beard which was released earlier this year. It is as the title suggests with Pollard and his acoustic guitar recording on a boom box in his living room which gives you a unique glimpse into the process and full respect for how Chris Slusarenko and John Moen helped create the rock opus that Let It Beard evolved into. If given the time, the best way to absorb the Boombox Demos is to play the tracks right up against the final product. To no surprise, Boombox is five minutes shorter than Let It Beard as the record was boosted with additions like the J. Mascis guitar solo at the end of "Tourist UFO". Here the song ends with about 45 seconds of Pollard singing la la's to the acoustic strum which was reduced to a quick 14 seconds on the album as the Mascis guitar solo caps off the stellar track. Some songs still retain their special status here as the pop in "Tabby And Lucy" remains completely in tact on the acoustic version of the song while "The Ballad Of Bad Whiskey" even works better in this form. This release will not be for everyone but fans of Pollard's work will truly enjoy the chance to hear this recording process and there is no better record to do it with then Let It Beard!

*This was originally released in a limited CD version but in the spirit of wanting the music to be heard you can currently download all 26 tracks for free at GBV Digital.

Boston Spaceships: Let It Beard [Fire Note Review 8/1/11]

Robert Pollard Website
Robert Pollard Facebook
Guided By Voices Digital
The Robert Pollard Store

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Rhett Miller: The Interpreter - Live At Largo

2011-12-07T07:00:00.004-05:00

Rhett Miller
The Interpreter: Live At Largo
Maximum Sunshine Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Rhett Miller is best when he is at home on the stage!

Album Review:
The live stage has always been a place that Old 97's frontman Rhett Miller has shined and on this 14-song set, recorded during his final two live performances at the original location of Largo in 2008, Miller gives you a sincere show of cover tunes. The album gives you some insight of why the Old 97's have never stayed in the Americana genre, as Live At Largo lets you in on Miller's favorites, which includes artists like Tom Petty, David Bowie, Elliott Smith, The Beatles, The Pixies, The Ramones, The Kinks and Bob Dylan. Most of the songs are played acoustic while five of them features producer/composer Jon Brion (Spoon, Robyn Hitchcock) and a solid bonus version of "Wave Of Mutilation" even has Pixies Joey Santiago helping out. Everything on here is taken at the most lighthearted, which is driven by the fun attitude of Miller. Some of the songs like "American Girl" and "Queen Bitch" struggle a bit in this format but still are enjoyable listens while Elliott Smith's "Happiness" is excellent along with The Beatles "I'll Cry Instead". The Interpreter: Live At Largo is a record that both Rhett Miller and Old 97's fans both will enjoy from beginning to end. It is not an album that you will revisit often but when you do, it will definitely give you something to smile about as you hum along with every tune!

Key Tracks: "California Stars", "Happiness", "I'll Cry Instead"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ryan Adams
Tim Easton
Jason Isbell

Old 97's: The Grand Theatre Vol. 2 [Fire Note Review 7/13/11]
Old 97's: The Grand Theatre Volume One [Fire Note Review 10/8/10]
Old 97's: Mimeograph [EP] [Fire Note Review 7/16/10]
Old 97's: Wreck Your Life...And Then Some: The Complete Bloodshot Recordings [Fire Note Review 1/25/10]
Rhett Miller: Rhett Miller [Fire Note Review 6/2/09]
Old 97's: Blame It On Gravity [Fire Note Review 5/27/08]
Rhett Miller: The Believer [Fire Note Review 5/3/06]

Rhett Miller Website
Rhett Miller Facebook
Old 97's Website
Old 97's Facebook

Rhett Miller

Cass McCombs: Humor Risk

2011-12-07T06:59:00.005-05:00

Cass McCombs
Humor Risk
Domino Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Cass McCombs loosens up the tempo on his second release this year Humor Risk.

Album Review:
Humor Risk is the second record we have seen from Cass McCombs this year, as it follows the April release of the excellent dark and moody WIT'S END. With that knowledge, the tone of WIT'S END now makes more sense as Humor Risk flips the approach and features a more upbeat vibe. Now don't think that this is McCombs rock record but Humor Risk does feature more foot tapping tempos like in "Robin Egg Blue" or the lead off slow burner "Love Thine Enemy", which has a memorable guitar line running through it. This looser style is all over Humor Risk which makes it one of McCombs most accessible albums to date, while also being one of his least cohesive. This is not a bad thing as the tracks on Humor Risk can proudly stand individually but it could possibly loose some of his fans that are in need of his focused intensity. Overall, Cass McCombs highlights another side to himself on Humor Risk that raises our anticipation for his next record that we might see his 2011 efforts blended into one perfect package!

Key Tracks: "Love Thine Enemy", "Robin Egg Blue", "Mystery Mail"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Kurt Vile
Stephen Malkmus
Silver Jews

Cass McCombs: WIT'S END [Fire Note Review 5/5/11]
Cass McCombs: Catacombs [Fire Note Review 7/6/09]

Cass McCombs Website
Cass McCombs Facebook
Domino Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones: The Magic Of Youth

2011-12-06T07:00:00.006-05:00

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones
The Magic Of Youth
Big Rig Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: This is the Bosstones that we remember!

Album Review:
I am fairly certain that we will never see the rise of ska punk to level it hit when the The Mighty Mighty Bosstones major label record Let's Face It soared in 1997 but The Magic Of Youth plays like the band never went away and is a solid Bosstones release from beginning to end. My biggest problem with their last outing, Pin Points And Gin Joints [2009], was that it played things too safe and strived for a sound that recalled their radio hit days. It also left the energetic frontman Dicky Barrett a bit contained and never found the Bosstones memorable hooks or punk undertone that always made them infectious at any level. The Magic Of Youth completely fixes those problems and hits you with the lead off two minute punked out track "The Daylights", while the following song, "Like A Shotgun" is a fast paced catchy number right up their punk ska alley that has attitude and a catchy hook. "Sunday Afternoon On Wisdom Ave." is a big sing a long Bosstones song that would be perfect to skank along with, as its ska dance hall vibe will remind fans of how catchy their 90's material used to be. The Magic Of Youth is a tidy 11 tracks in 36 minutes that moves quickly and offers all the sides of the Bosstones right down to the excellent Madness like closer "Open And Honest". This album represents a bright return from one of the modern ska genres classic artists that absolutely should appeal to longtime fans as The Mighty Mighty Bosstones sound like they are at the top of their game!

Key Tracks: "Like A Shotgun", "Sunday Afternoons On Wisdom Ave.", "Open And Honest"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Madness
Big D & The Kids Table
The Toasters

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones: Pin Points And Gin Joints [Fire Note Review 12/11/09]

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones Website
The Mighty Mighty Bosstones Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Trophy Fire: Modern Hearts

2011-12-06T06:59:00.003-05:00

The Trophy Fire
Modern Hearts
Greyday Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Trophy Fire return with another solid batch of soaring indie rock on their sophomore album Modern Hearts.

Album Review:
It has been three years since The Trophy Fire's excellent debut A Lifetime In The Middle Of The Ocean [2008], which made our Top 50 that year, so it is nice to see the San Francisco trio continuing their styled alternative rock on the sophomore album Modern Hearts. The record follows the same formula with its slower burning tracks that hit you with big memorable choruses which are all driven from the soft vocal delivery of frontman Ben Flanagan. Modern Hearts has its moments like on the title track which keeps your feet tapping with its big guitar sound and soaring melody before taking the volume way down into an earthly pause near the end of the track and then revving back up to its conclusion. The band also offers an excellent upbeat cover of The Knife's "Heartbeats" which is a highlight. The rest of Modern Hearts follows a similar formula and does not quite have the pulse that made A Lifetime In The Middle Of The Ocean so successful but overall the record is a grower with repeat listens. The Trophy Fire are a confident band that continues to show promise with quality songwriting, song structures and memorable choruses that should have no problem building their fanbase if they get the right break!

Key Tracks: "Modern Hearts", "Tired Eyes", "Heartbeats"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Jimmy Eat World
Idlewild
Snow Patrol

The Trophy Fire: A Lifetime In The Middle Of The Ocean [Fire Note Review 8/27/08] [#25 Top 50 of 2008]

The Trophy Fire Facebook
Greyday Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Black Keys: El Camino

2011-12-05T07:00:00.006-05:00

The Black Keys
El Camino
Nonesuch Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: El Camino is a fun, catchy and rowdy record that should treat The Black Keys to a very good 2012!

Album Review:
El Camino is the seventh studio album from Akron duo The Black Keys and it is a true upward tempo shift after last year's excellent but more refined Brothers [2010]. The record is considerably shorter at 38 minutes and packs a wallop of a rock punch on all 11 tracks with its classic 70's sound, hand claps, supporting back up singers and talk box guitar attacks.

Basically, El Camino is the really fun sibling that everyone always wants to hang out with in The Black Keys catalog as they admittedly wanted to make a record that played big. Right from the first single and lead off track "Lonely Boy", you know the peddle is to the floor and the giant stadium tunes are prepped. "Gold On The Ceiling" is made for sing-a-longs, while the soft two minute opening on "Little Black Submarines" sounds like a modern Led Zeppelin, as the song's final two minutes finishes off in grandiose fashion with its boisterous speaker filling riffs.

El Camino finds producer Danger Mouse behind the boards again and this go around, his sonic tightness impacts every track in a good way. I am fairly certain that just about every track here could eventually find its way to the radio next year so get ready because even though El Camino does not have the sophistication of Brothers it is still a damn good ride to the end and easily one of the most rocking records in The Black Keys catalog.

Key Tracks: "Lonely Boy", "Little Black Submarines", "Hell Of A Season"

Bands With Similar Fire:
T.Rex
Deep Purple
ZZ Top

The Black Keys: Brothers [Fire Note Review 5/19/10] [#4 Top 50 of 2010]
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]

The Black Keys Website
The Black Keys Facebook
Nonesuch Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Smashing Pumpkins: Gish & Siamese Dream [Deluxe Editions]

2011-12-05T06:59:00.006-05:00

The Smashing Pumpkins
Gish & Siamese Dream [Deluxe Editions]
EMI/Virgin Records [2011]
(2 CD/1 DVD Sets)

Fire Note Says: Two great albums and two great reissues!

Album Review:
To me, Gish [1991] and Siamese Dream [1993] from The Smashing Pumpkins still feel like more recent releases so even the thought of having Deluxe Editions seems odd. With that said, after playing both of these records again at max volume it hits you quickly of how good they are and now, more so than before, I realize how both albums helped explode alternative nation onto the masses. Their debut Gish was front loaded with classics like "I Am One", "Siva" and "Rhinoceros", which was a new sound for the 1991 scene and today I think the record as a whole sounds more cohesive then it did then. Call it nostalgia or maybe it is like a fine wine but Gish, especially the last third, feels and sounds improved. The 18 track bonus disc enhances the Gish experience as it kicks off with a 2011 mix version of the epic eleven minute "Starla" and new mixes from Butch Vig of the Sub Pop singles for "Tristessa" and "La Dolly Vita". It is definitely more than just a grab bag of rarities, as you can tell actual work went into this reissue. The DVD includes a show the Pumpkins did at the Metro from 1990, which surprisingly shows the band well on its way to stardom even in this very early form.

Siamese Dream raised the bar and notoriety for The Smashing Pumpkins and its deluxe edition is even more rewarding than Gish, as the record sounds as stellar today as it did then. You can hear the remastering but probably not as much here as some other reissues because the original was actually quite good. What I think pops more here is the blistering guitar and drums out of songs that I don't remember hitting you like a wall with their absolute crispness and venom like they do on this reissue. This is why Siamese Dream was a staple of alternative rock and why the album is still so highly regarded today. The 18 track bonus disc here is also an excellent addition as it features the interesting instrumentals "U.S.A." and "U.S.S.R." and an apartment demo of "Luna" that I think has a greater impact compared to its studio version. Considering the band was in total dismay during the making of Siamese Dream it is still amazing how this record shines perfection today. The included DVD is great to watch compared to the earlier Gish show, as it is another show at the Metro now set in 1993 around the release of the album and you can really see how far the band progressed over the two years.

Both of these deluxe editions are worth your time and money, as they really do cover tons of new ground either in unreleased material, the concert DVDs, the stylistic packaging or the entertaining track-by-track annotations by Billy Corgan. They both sound great and now have rightly taken their place in rock history as albums that not only were unique to their time but have stood the test of it, as well as influced so many groups since those alternative rock heydays!

The Smashing Pumpkins: Zei tgeist [Fire Note Review 7/12/07]

The Smashing Pumpkins Website
The Smashing Pumpkins Facebook
EMI Music
Virgin Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Twilight Singers: Live In New York

2011-12-02T07:00:00.009-05:00

The Twilight Singers
Live In New York
Infernal Recordings [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Twilight Singers live are an entire new animal unleashed as this 2 CD show from New York possesses maximum swagger!

Album Review:
Anyone that has ever seen Greg Dulli in concert, be it with The Afghan Whigs, The Gutter Twins, solo or in his now 11 years running with The Twilight Singers, you know exactly what you are going to get from this new 2 CD set Live In New York. If you have not ever had the privilege to catch Dulli live then this album tells all, as his commanding stage presence, likable personality, love for music and 100% effort, pour out over this concert's one and half hour duration. What makes Live In New York work so well is that it showcases perfectly a typical energetic show led by Dulli and all of their special moments, like how he starts a little Tom Petty "Breakdown" sing a long with the crowd during his version of Martina Topley-Bird's "Too Tough To Die" or how hard The Twilight Singers debut album track "Annie Mae" hits with a full band assault is spectacular. This peak energy flows throughout Live In New York and injects each of the 21 tracks here with a little more rock venom compared to their studio counterparts. This edge makes this live offering a must for fans and perfect even for someone wanting to check out The Twilight Singers catalog because every album is represented right down to the rousing closer "Esta Noche", that even jams a few lines of Carl Carlton's classic "Everlasting Love" as Dulli lowers the curtain on another stellar performance!

Key Tracks: "Bonnie Brae", "Too Tough To Die", "Esta Noche"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds
Prince
The Rolling Stones

The Twilight Singers: Dynamite Steps [Fire Note Review 2/11/11]
Greg Dulli: Live At Triple Door [Fire Note Review 11/7/08]
The Gutter Twins: Adorata EP [Fire Note Review 9/12/08]
The Gutter Twins: Saturnalia [Fire Note Review 3/4/08]
The Twilight Singers: A Stitch In Time EP [Fire Note Review 11/1/06]
The Twilight Singers: Powder Burns [Fire Note Review 5/16/06]

The Twilight Singers Website
T he Twilight Singers Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Head And The Heart: iTunes Session

2011-12-02T06:59:00.009-05:00

The Head And The Heart
iTunes Session
Sub Pop Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Head And The Heart show you what all the hype is about on their engaging iTunes session.

Album Review:
You might think that the iTunes Sessions series might be a way to grab your cash but so far these offerings have been very rewarding and the new one from Seattle's The Head And The Heart is another solid recording to add to the collection. The band spent a full day laying down these eight songs, which includes an excellent alternate version of their single “Lost In My Mind” and the two new tracks, "When I Fall Asleep" and "Ever Since", that are part of their current live show. The Head And The Heart have been building lots of steam along with the current neo-folk movement and this quality EP is not only a nice addition for fans but also could serve as a perfect introduction to anyone new.

Key Tracks: "When I Fall Asleep", "Ever Since", "Lost In My Mind (Alt Version)"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Low Anthem
Mumford & Sons
Great Lake Swimmers

The Head And The Heart: The Head And The Heart [Fire Note Review 4/19/11]

The Head And The Heart Website
The Head And The Heart Facebook
Sub Pop Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Blackout Beach: Fuck Death

2011-12-01T07:00:00.005-05:00

Blackout Beach
Fuck Death
Dead Oceans Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Blackout Beach does not disappoint on third LP as Carey Mercer once again will challenge your brain.

Album Review:
I don't think there is any argument that Carey Mercer (Frog Eyes, Swan Lake) has released some complex records and on his third long player, under his Blackout Beach moniker, you may add Fuck Death to the list. This record is about beauty and war while exploring cowardice at the perspective of a deserter. Heavy stuff but the material really does make for an interesting listen, as most of the tracks have a gloomy haze about them. Musically, the tracks on Fuck Death are solid compositions as Mercer recorded the album himself with three synthesizers (two mono, one poly), two drum machines, and one guitar amplifier. Frog Eyes keyboardist Megan Boddy sings on most of the songs, which gives the record a nice balance from Mercer's own commanding vocal performance. What makes Fuck Death stand out from some of Mercer's other material is that the record does a phenomenal job of staying on task and leading the listener along at a pace their brain can handle. Usually, Mercer can come at you from every angle but Fuck Death uses sequencing and space to its benefit and allows the listener to become involved and invested. With that said, Blackout Beach is not a group you just pick up and play as it is an acquired taste. If you have been a fan before, I believe that Fuck Death will impress you and ranks up there with his best. Newbies to Mercer's work may struggle a bit more but if given the chance you too can see how Mercer's cerebral mind works - and that always makes for an entertaining listen.

Key Tracks: "Be Forewarned, The Night Has Come", "Torchlights Banned", "Deserter's Song"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Destroyer
Wooden Wand
Atlas Sound

Blackout Beach: Skin Of Evil [Fire Note Review 2/3/09]

Blackout Beach Facebook
Dead Oceans Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Pink Floyd: A Foot In The Door - The Best Of Pink Floyd

2011-12-01T06:59:00.008-05:00

Pink Floyd
A Foot In The Door: The Best Of Pink Floyd
EMI/Capitol Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Not an essential release but one that tries its best to capture Pink Floyd on one album.

Album Review:
If I were to request 16 die hard Floyd fans to make me a 16 track compilation, I guarantee I would get 16 very different records. With that said, A Foot In The Door attempts to accomplish the impossible, as it tries to capture Pink Floyd's career in one single disc offering. The music of course is stellar and clearly this Best Of is in connection with the reissue/remaster campaign of all their material, so I don't hold that against anyone, as I even believe the title is a perfect statement of what this is - an introduction. If there ever was an album band, Pink Floyd is that group in rock history but smartly this compilation does not list the songs in chronological order. This really does allow the listener to just concentrate on the tracks. Most of the radio staples are here, along with several odd selections like the included 1:32 "The Happiest Days Of Our Lives" which is the intro to "Another Brick In The Wall (Part 2)" just like it is on The Wall [1979] and maybe a different selection this time from The Final Cut [1983] would have been nice instead of "The Fletcher Memorial Home" that was also on the 2 CD best of collection Echoes [2001]. Of course, A Foot In The Door relies heavier on tracks from Pink Floyd's staple albums and I like that it kicks off with "Hey You" and includes an 11 minute "Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5)". If you are looking for a nice sounding, quick take on Floyd then A Foot In The Door will work. I would always recommend a person diving right into their classic albums but in a world of shuffle, this compilation succeeds and showcases Pink Floyd as one of the most essential rock acts we have seen!

Pink Floyd Website
Pink Floyd Facebook
EMI Music
Captiol Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Kate Bush: 50 Words For Snow

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Kate Bush
50 Words For Snow
ANTI- Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The incredibly talented Kate Bush takes you on a trip that is both haunting and mesmerizing on her new long player 50 Words For Snow!

Album Review:
There is no argument that Kate Bush has influenced a multitude of artists and her work has always been considered classic. Her brand new studio album, 50 Words For Snow is a perfect example of why, as the record is daunting, gorgeous, grandiose and mesmerizing. Just by length alone, its 7 tracks run a whopping 65 minutes as it weaves its mystical stories about the hunt for the abominable snowman on "Wild Man" or the ghost that searchers for her dog in "Lake Tahoe". These stories are set over some of her most intricate piano driven tracks that ebb and flow with a quiet intensity of the bass, drum and guitar, which grab hold of you and don't let go. This is the magic of 50 Words For Snow, as you might think losing interest would be easy in 11 and 13 minute tracks but it actually is quite the opposite, as you look forward to what is next. The album features some notable guest artists, such as Elton John on the duet "Snowed In At Wheeler Street" and Andy Fairweather Low in "Wild Man" that both add a superb depth to the record. The closing "Among Angels" showcases that Bush still has it, as it features just her singing and playing the piano. 50 Words For Snow is not going to be a record you go back to on a consistent basis but it is a record to be hailed because when you do dedicate the time to it, Kate Bush will take over your world!

Key Tracks: "Wild Man", "Among Angels", "Snowed In At Wheeler Street"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Tori Amos
Bjork
PJ Harvey

Kate Bush Website
Kate Bush Facebook
ANTI- Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Gorillaz: The Singles Collection 2001-2011

2011-11-30T06:59:00.007-05:00

Gorillaz
The Singles Collection 2001-2011
EMI/Virgin Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The most successful virtual band in the world shows you why on their new Singles Collection covering the last 10 years!

Album Review:
Who would have thought that cartoon gorillas could be so damn catchy? Well apparently Blur frontman Damon Albarn thought so, as his venture into the audio and visual innovation world of Gorillaz has turned out some great tracks over the last ten years. What you realize as you take on this new singles collection is how all of the Gorillaz songs still stand tall today and absolutely do not sound dated. They all bring a foot tapping likability to them and sound even better when the volume is turned up. If you lost track of the band after their big 2001 hit "Clint Eastwood", then this compilation is a perfect place to catch up. For hardcore fans, you probably have most of these tracks so the deluxe edition with the DVD might be the better selection. Overall, Gorillaz have an excellent collection of rock dance music that is both catchy and memorable that flows great together making The Singles Collection 2001-2011 worth every minute you give it!

Key Tracks: "Clint Eastwood", "Kids With Guns", "Stylo"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Daft Punk
Handsome Boy Modeling School
Massive Attack

Gorillaz: Plastic Beach [Fire Note Review 3/11/10] [#39 Top 50 2010]

Gorillaz Website
Gorillaz Facebook
EMI/Virgin Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Kerbivore: Temporary

2011-11-29T07:00:00.006-05:00

Kerbivore
Temporary
Family Fun Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: New York's Kerbivore bring a classic sound forward on their debut Temporary.

Album Review:
Independent music lives on with Staten Island band Kerbivore, as current sole member Sean Kuhl offers up a classic sounding rock fueled debut with Temporary. You will instantly think The Replacements meets Dinosaur Jr. on lead off track "Passing Through", as Kuhl has a Westerberg gruff to his voice while the intricate guitar work is loud and driving. This wide and loose approach to Kerbivore's song structures work and make the first part of Temporary memorable in nimble 3 minute numbers. As the album progresses, so does its song lengths with "The Party Died Out" crossing the 6 minute mark that works with its right balance of a quick tempo and energetic vocal. This same longer song structure does hold some of the tracks in the last third of Temporary back a bit because their extension loses the sharpness found on Kerbivore's 3 minute songs. Overall, Temporary has many highlights and shows real promise when Kerbivore keeps things tight. If you are into bands that are completely off the radar then Kerbivore is for you and I definitely recommend checking them out as you will not be disappointed with this energetic debut.

Key Tracks: "From Now On", "Passing Through", "The Party Died Out"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Replacements
WATERS
Dinosaur Jr.

Kerbivore Website
Kerbivore Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sloan: Is That All I Get?

2011-11-29T06:59:00.008-05:00

Sloan
Is That All I Get?
Self-Released [2011]

Fire Note Says: Go back to the beginning with this newly released Sloan live set!

Album Review:
Sloan fans received a treat this month with the release of this live recording titled Is That All I Get? It was recorded by a fan in the audience via cassette on September 20, 1993 in Winnipeg, MB and you will be surprised that the recording actually sounds descent. It by no means is a sonic experience but that is what makes this era of Sloan so interesting, as this show captures the moment between the release of their debut, Smeared [1993] and their sophomore album Twice Removed [1994]. The set list offers up eleven tracks with five of them from Smeared, three b-sides and three from Twice Removed that are all preformed in a raw, energetic and guitared out fashion. Knowing the history of what was to follow, Is That All I Get? is an entertaining listen for Sloan fans because you can hear a significant difference from how the three Twice Removed tracks are presented here live compared to the album versions released in '94. If you have ever seen Sloan live, the energy captured here will be familiar as it has never changed. This is exactly why Is That All I Get? is a fan must and why Sloan have built such a loyal following over the years!

*For the collectors out there make sure to seek out the limited green marble vinyl release of this recording as there were only 300 pressed and sold out quickly!

Key Tracks: "500 Up", "Worried Now", "Amped"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Velvet Crush
Big Star
Superchunk

Sloan: The Double Cross [Fire Note Review 5/5/11]
Sloan: B Sides Win: Extras, Bonus Tracks And B-Sides 1992-2008 [Fire Note Review 10/20/10]
Sloan: Hit & Run [EP] [Fire Note Review 12/9/09]
Sloan: Parallel Play [Fire Note Review 6/9/08]
Sloan: Never Hear The End Of It [Fire Note Review 12/22/06]

Sloan Website
Sloan Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Sea Lions: Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sea Lions But Were Afraid To Ask

2011-11-28T07:00:00.005-05:00

Sea Lions
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sea Lions But Were Afraid To Ask
Slumberland Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Get on the indie pop wave with the solid debut from the Sea Lions!

Album Review:
Have you ever put a record on and had an immediate attachment to it? That is how I felt when I first put on the very long titled and long awaited debut from Oxnard, California's Sea Lions. The band was formed in 2007 by singer/guitarist Adrian Pillado and originally was just a duo but now with five members, Everything You Always... represents a true progression from their "making noise" days. The album has an instant swagger to it with the short 23 second intro track before the foot tapper "I Should Be Sleeping" kicks off. The song has the Slumberland sound of vocals and instruments battling for the spotlight but its short indie pop is what really wins over the listener. The record is full of Pillado's croon that emotes a classic 60's scene while keeping completely current as most of its 15 tracks average 2 minutes. The tight guitar work packaged on "Tell Me" will have you playing air guitar while the background passing whoos in "As Times Change" will stick in your head. These short time limits on tracks let the Sea Lions get right to the point, as they hit you with strong direct instruments, quickfire melodies and plenty of pop youthful angst that is very infectious. This free vibe spirit maintains its cleverness on all of Everything You Always... 29 minute running time and keeps your ear hanging on every track. The Sea Lions have made an excellent debut that is a quick grower and a record that will sound great 10 years from now just as it did yesterday!

Key Tracks: "I Should Be Sleeping", "As Times Change", "Tell You"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Orange Juice
13th Floor Elevators
Shimmering Stars

Sea Lions Website
Sea Lions Facebook
Slumberland Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2011-11-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

We hope everyone has a great holiday! We are taking today and tomorrow off. The Fire Note will return this Monday November 28th.

The Migrant: Amerika

2011-11-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

The Migrant
Amerika
Self-Released [2011]

Fire Note Says: A solid self-released sophomore record from The Migrant.

Album Review:
Amerika is the sophomore album from The Migrant, aka Bjarke Bendtsen, which returns with another batch of his psychedelic pop-folk. Amerika differentiates itself from last years debut by bringing a fuller sound to the tracks with more instruments that are utilized to build songs into big finishes. This gives Amerika a more free rolling and spacious sound overall, while still letting Bendten shine vocally. On tracks like standout "The Hurricane", there is a bluesy hand clap pulse that pulls the listener along in supreme fashion as your focus goes straight to Bendten until an array of horns completes the track. Vocally, "Everywhere You Go" keeps in a lo-fi mode while the track builds its intensity and stretches out gorgeously until its quick quiet ending. "It's Alright Heart" lets Bendten's raw vocals maintain a soft stance until the last fourth picks up and lets his voice fly which turns out to be a nice transition into the likable rowdy sing along "Take It!". I do believe that Amerika, at times, struggles in the production category because some of the songs don't meet their full potential as they fall short over the stereo. This one piece does hold Amerika back from being great but the quality song structures, vocal delivery and building intensity still sets The Migrant apart from the crowd and makes this release worth seeking out as it becomes more infectious with multiple spins.

Key Tracks: "The Hurricane", "Take It!", "Everywhere You Go"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Iron & Wine
Bon Iver
I Build Collapsible Mountains

The Migrant: Travels In Lowland [Fire Note Review 9/16/10]

The Migrant Website
The Migrant Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Johnny Cash: Bootleg Vol. III - Live Around The World

2011-11-23T06:59:00.006-05:00

Johnny Cash
Bootleg Vol. III: Live Around The World
Columbia/Legacy Recordings [2011]
(2CD Set)

Fire Note Says: A nice addition to the Bootleg Series from Johnny Cash and a must pick up for fans!

Album Review:
If you ever wondered what it would have been like to see Johnny Cash live back in the day then the third installment of the Bootleg Series from Legacy Recordings is a must have 2 cd set. This collection covers his earliest days on the road at the Big D Jamboree in Dallas Texas in 1956 to 1970 when he played the White House in Washington, D.C. that has an interesting 4 minute introduction from President Nixon. There is nothing better then hearing Cash sing "Remember The Alamo" in 1969 at the Annex 14 NCO Club in Long Binh, Vietnam or his set list at the classic Newport Folk Festival in 1964. If there was ever any doubt, Bootleg III simply upholds Cash as the superb showman that he was and lets the listener hear how he always loved his fans and knew how to play a crowd. I will admit that the two and half hours of music here can be a little overwhelming but if you take it in pieces, it is worth every minute you give it and something to fall back on when you are in the mood to hear the classic man in black!

Johnny Cash: Bootleg Vol. II - From Memphis To Hollywood [Fire Note Review 2/21/11]
Johnny Cash: American VI - Ain't No Grave [Fire Note Review 2/24/10]
Johnny Cash: American V - A Hundred Highways [Fire Note Review 7/4/06]

Johnny Cash Website
Johnny Cash Facebook
Columbia/Legacy Recordings

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Kooks: Junk Of The Heart

2011-11-22T07:00:00.005-05:00

The Kooks
Junk Of The Heart
Astralwerks Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: The Kooks return with a bright Brit-pop sound on album number three Junk Of The Heart.

Album Review:
More than ever before, The Kooks embrace their Brit-pop roots on their third album Junk Of The Heart. This can be a good or bad thing depending which side of the ocean you sit on. If you are on the States side, then The Kooks will need to work hard to rekindle some of the following they had with their 2008 release Konk because Junk Of The Heart plays it somewhat safe. Now, sometimes safe is not bad if it still catches your ear, like on the opening "Junk Of The Heart (Happy)" that bounces and grooves with a memorable chorus. "Taking Pictures Of You" is probably close to the best ballad the group has ever written, while the 60's British Invasion style of "Eskimo Kiss" is a true highlight. This is the swagger The Kooks can pull off but Junk Of The Heart does also sound familiar at times, in the way that you have heard it before. The band does not try to cover up where they are from but too often it buries their uniqueness and becomes easier to pass over The Kooks in a cluttered crowd of bands searching for air play. If you have been following The Kooks career then Junk Of The Heart will be a satisfying listen, especially if you enjoy 90's Brit-pop because the band shines in that format. Is there anything earth shattering new here? That answer is no but I still think there are plenty of shining moments here that are well worth checking out, as The Kooks show no signs of slowing down and once again showcase that they have the right components to make a stellar record.

Key Tracks: "Junk Of The Heart (Happy)", "Taking Pictures Of You", "Eskimo Kiss"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Suede
The Kinks
Longpigs

The Kooks: Inside In/Inside Out [Fire Note Review 9/25/06]

The Kooks Website
The Kooks Facebook
Astralwerks Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Los Campesinos!: Hello Sadness

2011-11-21T07:00:00.007-05:00

Los Campesinos!
Hello Sadness
Arts & Crafts Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Los Campesinos! get serious on fourth long player, Hello Sadness, which paves new paths for the band and succeeds all the way to the end!

Album Review:
Any band with longevity always works their way towards a "mature" record, which is a widely used term to convey a multitude of things, such as the band could be taking a new direction musically, the band has down shifted their tempos and/or the group goes much deeper with their lyric subject matter than previous efforts. For Los Campesinos! and lead singer and songwriter Gareth Campesinos, the band finds their maturity in some of the darkest material they have penned yet. This is a shift from their earlier three records and here you can differentiate how the focus on each note is important to every composition on Hello Sadness. Los Campesinos! over the years have been the poster children for indie rock, right from their crazy hyped beginning to still carrying the torch on Hello Sadness. It is great to hear a record of this sort amid the ever growing do-it yourself approach or the continued chillwave movement because what you hear is what you get. The band no longer relies on hitting you quick with excitable indie rock numbers but uses their skills to build some intensity, as "To Tundra" is one of their most grandiose tracks to date. That does not mean that Los Campesinos! abandoned the big anthem tracks because the opening hand clapper "By Your Hand" is instantly likable, while the catchy "The Black Bird, The Dark Slope" shines with its layered harmonies and darker musical mood. Even though Los Campensinos! present mostly songs about life struggle on Hello Sadness, they package it into solid compensations, that take a few more listens to get into then their earlier work, but once you get there - the tracks stick. This is why Los Campensinos! are still important on album number four and why Hello Sadness is a must listen for any fan new or old!

Key Tracks: "By Your Hand", "Hello Sadness", "The Black Bird, The Dark Slope"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Cure
Cursive
Arcade Fire

Los Campesinos!: Romance Is Boring [Fire Note Review 1/26/10]
Los Campesinos!: We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed [Fire Note Review 11/21/08] [#18 Top 50 of 2008]

Los Campesinos! Website
Los Campesinos! Facebook
Arts & Crafts Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

R.E.M.: Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage: 1982-2011

2011-11-21T06:59:00.017-05:00

R.E.M.
Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage: 1982-2011
IRS/Warner Bros. Records [2011]
(2CD Set)

Fire Note Says: This new double album compilation does an excellent job of covering all the eras of R.E.M.!

Album Review:
It seemed a bit weird to me that the day after R.E.M. announced their break up that the details of Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage: 1982-2011 were released. To me, it was like we are going away but here is one parting shot to take your money. Well after sitting down with this 2 disc compilation I hereby eat my words. This collection represents the band's first career-spanning anthology and gives them to you in chronological order. This of course means that it is really divided into three parts being college R.E.M., radio hit and award winning R.E.M. and lastly - trio R.E.M. after Bill Berry's exit in 1997. With that in mind, this compilation stays, like it or not, to this path as 13 songs are from the IRS records catalog, 14 are from the Warner Bros. Records days and 13 come from the trio years. What you find is that this approach really does a spectacular job of covering their extensive body of work as most of their singles made the cut. Now that doesn't bless this release completely as there are still some question marks. Including 3 tracks from this year's Collapse Into Now [2011] seems one too many, even though they are not bad songs but the album time constraint means that something else more classic was cut. Adding "Living Well Is The Best Revenge" from Accelerate [2008] once again selects a song that is not bad but could have been a spot better used, although it helped stick to the equal splitting of the R.E.M. timeline. Personally, not including "Cuyahoga", "Superman", or "Pretty Persuasion" from their earlier material here was hurtful to my ear and instead having "Shiny Happy People" included was too easy, especially given it was a track that Stipe himself always said he hated. There are also 3 new songs included here which are solid but highlighted by the ballad "We All Go Back To Where We Belong", that represents a perfect R.E.M. track. At the end of the day, you would be surprised on how well all of these songs work together. You recognize how lengthy a career R.E.M. had and how even the later material was consciously planned out and in this setting, sounds better than on the albums themselves. Will R.E.M. ever come back? Probably not but you never know. The good thing till then is Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage: 1982-2011 does paint the perfect picture of R.E.M.'s career and is a proud representation of why they will always be near the top in a list of the greatest bands that ever picked up an instrument!

R.E.M.: Lifes Rich Pageant [25th Anniversary Edition] [Fire Note Review 8/8/11]
R.E.M.: Collapse Into Now [Fire Note Review 3/9/11]
R.E.M.: Fables Of The Reconstruction [25th Anniversary Edition] [Fire Note Review 7/14/10]
R.E.M.: Live At The Olympia [Fire Note Review 11/30/09]
R.E.M.: Reckoning [Deluxe Edition] [Fire Note Review 6/26/09]
R.E.M.: Murmur [Deluxe Edition] [Fire Note Review 12/1/08]
R.E.M.: Accelerate [Fire Note Review 3/31/08]

R.E.M. Website
R.E.M. Facebook
Warner Bros. Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Mastodon: The Hunter

2011-11-18T07:00:00.002-05:00

Mastodon
The Hunter
Reprise Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Mastodon drop the concept but still bring the heavy on fifth long player The Hunter!

Album Review:
For Mastodon's fifth album, The Hunter, the band forgoes a deep concept and just brings the heavy rock that you have come to expect from the Atlanta group. This gives the band some new creative freedom, as the 13 tracks come at you in different ways. Mastodon can assault you with blistering tracks like the three minute pounding on "Spectrelight", they can drive you back with controlled monster riffs on tracks like the album opening "Black Tongue", they can produce memorable big choruses, such as the sing a long "All The Heavy Lifting" and then can peacefully ride off into the sunset with the slower and sprawling "The Sparrow", which rounds out the album and the band. After creating such brain driven conceptual pieces in the past, it actually is refreshing to just hear Mastodon take on making an excellent rock record with no extras - just muscle!

Key Tracks: "Black Tongue", "All The Heavy Lifting", "Spectrelight"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Sword
Queens Of The Stone Age
Melvins

Mastodon: Crack The Skye [Fire Note Review 4/1/09]

Mastodon Website
Mastodon Facebook
Reprise Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Beach Boys: The SMiLE Sessions [Deluxe Edition]

2011-11-18T06:59:00.008-05:00

The Beach Boys
The SMiLE Sessions [Deluxe Edition]
EMI/Capitol Records [2011]
(2CD Set)

Fire Note Says: A must hear!

Album Review:
If you already have picked up this classic then you know what all the hype has been about. If you are frowning and thinking about your parents, commercials or just songs about girls then you haven't discovered the real Beach Boys yet. Pet Sounds [1966] of course is the groups pinnacle "indie" record that, deservedly so, always gets the essential listen mark with its grade A lo-fi pop genius in action and if you know your history, SMiLE was supposed to be its follow up. This is the record that Brian Wilson had grandiose dreams of making his own Sgt. Pepper's but never pulled it off due to the music being considered too out there by his band mates, Wilson's own struggle to finish tracks and a multitude of other complicating factors. The album was abandoned and ever since has been the great pop mystery. In 2004, Brian Wilson put out his version of SMiLE but it was a reworked version and not the original tracks. This all leads us to The SMiLE Sessions and the way this album was always intended for the world to hear. Now I am sure that nostalgia and the anticipation of greatness influences your first listen of The SMiLE Sessions but the record is really superb. I also think that it would have struggled for success if it was released as expected because it was unique and progressive for the late 60's but sounds right at home in 2011. Considering all the genres that have been formed since that era, The SMiLE Sessions can be respected and accepted as art versus producing singles and charting. This gives the record an advantage today as it has all the great working pieces that made Pet Sounds so great but then adds in the theatrical components that are both extravagant and maybe even eccentric but all exciting at this point. The 2nd disc on this set also adds to the bigger picture of SMiLE, as it showcases more of the pieces that this record was cultivated from. It is not an essential listen every time but the bonus material definitely adds to the story plus if you want the full picture, there is also the box set version of this release that features 5 total discs with one of them containing the 34 session tracks that eventually produced "Heroes And Villains". The entire project is daunting but now that it has finally been released, the final verdict on The SMiLE Sessions is that the record is something to marvel at and most certainly has lived up to all the years of speculation that it was a hidden great!

The Beach Boys Website
The Beach Boys Facebook
Captiol Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Leafs: Come, Take My Hand EP

2011-11-17T06:59:00.004-05:00

The Leafs
Come, Take My Hand EP
Self-Released [2011]

Fire Note Says: Second EP expands the length of The Leafs tracks with equally stellar results!

Album Review:
We told you about Australia's Leafs back in August and the group has just released it's second EP titled Come, Take My Hand, which expands their sound and finds the band experimenting with longer songs this go around with the same excellent results. Right from the opening strum on the title track, you can hear that The Leafs are onto something different as the drums don't even kick in till the one minute mark as the song maintains a cool mid-tempo pulse throughout. At 4:34 it is their longest composition yet and it showcases a completely different side of this band before getting to the more rowdy "Let's Get Fucked Up" which takes over your stereo. The soft delivered "The Error Of Your Ways" returns The Leafs to a more familiar territory with its short 1:25 time frame but then it is followed up by the almost 4 minute angular riff rocker "I Wanna Be A Machine". The Leafs recorded this EP in one night over 7 hours but its consistency and solid transitions would have you believing there were several sessions and retakes involved. The Leafs have once again offered up an EP that gets better after every spin and we can't wait for number three, which rumor has it should be out early next year!

Key Tracks: "Let's Get Fucked Up", "I Wanna Be A Machine", "Come, Take My Hand"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Lifter Puller
Coffinberry
Parts & Labor

The Leafs: Space Elevator EP [Fire Note Review 8/18/11]

The Leafs Website
The Leafs MySpace

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

The Birthday Suit: The Eleventh Hour

2011-11-17T06:58:00.004-05:00

The Birthday Suit
The Eleventh Hour
Sing It Alone Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Idlewild guitarist/songwriter Rod Jones presents his new solo project - The Birthday Suit.

Album Review:
The Birthday Suit is the new solo project from Idlewild guitarist/songwriter Rod Jones that returns him to a familiar zone of catchy indie rock. Clearly the players are different but right from the opening album rocker "Do You Ever?", you realize that Jones could care less if The Birthday Suit is similar to Idlewild. It is a formula that has been successful over the last 16 years and The Birthday Suit embrace that success with their own catchy anthems and memorable melodies on The Eleventh Hour. The Birthday Suit does bring something different to the table here as the female backing vocal of Jacqueline Irvine gives songs a unique twist and the addition of violin by Catrin Pryce-Jones boosts some of the tracks depth. The Eleventh Hour will definitely appeal to Idlewild fans as many of the tracks feel and sound like Jones had already written them for his day job but as it turns out, The Birthday Suit bring a fresh energetic flare on this debut that displays a true passion for music and certainly has the potential to build a new fan base with these 11 smoldering tracks.

Key Tracks: "Do You Ever?", "Sell It All", "Don't Look Down"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Ash
Idlewild
Placebo

The Birthday Suit Website
The Birthday Suit Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Blouse: Blouse

2011-11-16T07:00:00.004-05:00

Blouse
Blouse
Captured Tracks Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Blouse make 80's electronic pop cool again!

Album Review:
It is a fine line to walk but Portland, OR trio Blouse successfully recreate an 80's electronic pop vibe on their self-titled debut. This record could have easily fell into a terrible place if its ten tracks sounded gimmicky or contrived in any way but thanks to lead vocalist Charlie Hilton, Blouse take control with a modern 2011 flare, as her infectious tone captures you immediately on the opener "Firestarter". Her vocals float just above the steady beat and synthesizers as Blouse let their dream pop take over your speakers. Blouse also add a sense of urgency to their tracks which is where there indie edge comes from, as songs like "Time Travel" and "Videotapes" come at you with their up-tempo beats and leave you with positive memorable impressions. Blouse do struggle to maintain the edge of your seat anticipation throughout the entire album but clearly the highs outweigh the lows. Given the pure fact that Blouse successfully pull a genre forward to the present and then make it believable, catchy and addicting will not only have you hitting repeat but looking forward to where they take their sound next!

Key Tracks: "Time Travel", "Firestarter", "Videotapes"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Missing Persons
Broadcast
Berlin

Blouse Website
Blouse Facebook
Captured Tracks Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Youth Lagoon: The Year Of Hibernation

2011-11-15T07:00:00.005-05:00

Youth Lagoon
The Year Of Hibernation
Fat Possum Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: This is one home recording you should check out!

Album Review:
Youth Lagoon is the project of 22-year-old musician Trevor Powers from Boise, Idaho that brings all of the elements you love from home recordings and then wins you over with his style. Opening track "Posters" kicks the record off in familiar territory, as you get Powers voice struggling to sing just above the flowing synth music as his tone echoes of the song structure. Now if you turn it off there because you have heard it all before then you have a made a critical mistake, as the song completely shifts gears at the 2 minute mark and flourishes instrumentally in complete stereo with a memorable beat. This transitions you right into "Cannons", which has a big sprawling chorus with Powers vocals drenched in reverb. One of the catchiest tracks on the record is "Afternoon" that is a whistle while you listen song that builds its volume on the way out, while the mostly hush "July" explodes out of nowhere with Powers singing to the top of his lungs capacity. These are just a few of the pieces that make The Year Of Hibernation so infectious and with 8 songs averaging around 4 minutes, Powers utilizes all the time and space to maximize his sound. Where most bands of this nature are usually in and out, Youth Lagoon hangs around and gives the listener fully realized ideas while catching your ear with a memorable lyric or beat. Musically you may feel that you have been here before but after several spins you realize that Youth Lagoon is a standout from an ever growing genre and The Year Of Hibernation just might be one of the best records we have heard this year!

Key Tracks: "Afternoon", "July", "Posters"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Real Estate
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Perfume Genius

Youth Lagoon Website
Youth Lagoon Facebook
Fat Possum Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Billy Joel: Piano Man (Legacy Edition)

2011-11-15T06:59:00.012-05:00

Billy Joel
Piano Man (Legacy Edition)
Columbia/Legacy Recordings [2011]
(2CD Set)

Fire Note Says: Billy Joel's Columbia Records debut gets the Legacy treatment with an excellent bonus disc.

Album Review:
Have you ever been to a college bar and heard "Piano Man" or "Captain Jack" playing in the background? Have you ever noticed that all of the youngsters know the words and sing along? Did you ever wonder why? The reason why is that Billy Joel is an superb singer/songwriter that is celebrating a 40 year solo career and can easily identify with everyone through his songs which makes them memorable, catchy and in most cases - classic. Sure you can scoff all you want at Joel but really go back and listen to his early material and you can see why he has influenced so many artists of today. Piano Man of course is a great place to start, as it was Joel's second record but the first album he did with Columbia Records (A decision made because it was Dylan's label). The remastering is solid and the album is worth every minute but the 2nd disc here is the real gem, as it features for the first time ever, Billy's full performance at Sigma Sound, re-mixed from the original studio recording. The concert includes three Billy Joel songs, "Long, Long Time," "Josephine," and "Rosalinda", which do not appear on any other of his albums. This show also conveys his ease in front of the piano and each track contains an intro track telling some great stories. Every song on here is fresh, energetic and just a entertaining easy listen making this Legacy Edition worth the price of admission!

If you really want to check out Billy Joel's full work, the Piano Man (Legacy Edition) has been co-released with The Complete Albums Collection Box Set that features brand-new remasters of every Billy Joel studio album, two lavish 60-page booklets, printed lyrics to every Billy Joel composition, a new Q&A with Billy conducted by noted music journalist Steve Morse, and a bonus disc of 17 rare and non-album recordings.

Billy Joel Website
Billy Joel Facebook
Columbia Records
Legacy Recordings

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Atlas Sound: Parallax

2011-11-14T07:00:00.005-05:00

Atlas Sound
Parallax
4AD Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Bradford Cox keeps his streak alive with another great release - only this time with his other project Atlas Sound!

Album Review:
Parallax, the third album from Atlas Sound, is the most developed record yet from the solo project of Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox. The record ventures down different areas of the rock path but as a complete record, Parallax is very cohesive. This is what makes the album so infectious because it is very easy to get lost in. The opening up tempo track, "The Shakes", finds Cox inflicting a very modern Bowie vocal style that immediately sets you up for greatness, as the atmospheric "Te Amo" showcases yet another side of Atlas Sound that can float and swirl synthesizers much like a laid back Radiohead. In previous Atlas Sound records, Cox had his vocals much more buried but here on Parallax the total opposite happens, as his vocals are clear, concise and in control especially highlighted on the ballad "Modern Aquatic Nightsongs", which lets Cox croon. This track leads you into the uber catchy pop song "Mona Lisa" that was one of my favorites here and is the perfect ending to side one, as it preps you for more great things to come. The swaying swagger and confidence packed into the closer "Lightworks" is exactly why Cox is already this decades indie King and if he keeps releasing albums of this quality, with both Deerhunter and Atlas Sound, then there won't be much support out there to vote against him. Clearly, Bradford Cox is on a streak and Parallax is another strong statement to the fact that will probably also end up on our Best Of list coming next month!

Key Tracks: "Mona Lisa", "Lightworks", "The Shakes"

Bands With Similar Fire:
David Bowie
Spiritualized
Brian Eno

Deerhunter: Halcyon Digest [Fire Note Review 9/30/10] [#3 Top 50 of 2010]
Deerhunter: Rainwater Cassette Exchange [EP] [Fire Note Review 6/30/09]
Deerhunter: Microcastle / Weird Era Cont. [Fire Note Review 11/10/08] [#16 Top 50 of 2008]

Atlas Sound Facebook
4AD Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Frank Sinatra: Best Of The Best (Deluxe Edition)

2011-11-14T06:59:00.006-05:00

Frank Sinatra
Best Of The Best (Deluxe Edition)
EMI/Capitol Records [2011]
(2CD Set)

Fire Note Says: Reprise and Capitol Records join forces to bring you this comprehensive history lesson on Sinatra with the excellent new Best Of The Best compilation!

Album Review:
Frank Sinatra is a true icon of the 20th century and you can't ever seem to go too far without having his music injected into your everyday life be it through a television program or just out shopping. The key is - have you ever went back and listened to his catalog? Where do you start? Sinatra scored his first number one hit in 1940 and still could sell millions of albums in 1994. There are plenty of box sets out there but I believe you will still be hard pressed to just hear the essentials in one sitting. Well - Best Of The Best is a 23 track collection that should change all of that and be an excellent first stop for new and old fans to hear what all the hype was about. This is the first collection that has Reprise and Capitol Records truly joining forces and offering up some of his best work in one place. It really is hit after hit that starts with "I've Got The World On A String" from 1953 to the closing "Theme From New York, New York" that hit the airwaves in 1980. The deluxe edition is well worth the extra as disc 2 features the out of print Sinatra '57 in Concert, which is a superb live show that highlights Sinatra in his element. It is a great moment in time that is all swagger and show, which is exactly the way you imagined it! I don't care if you are 16 or 46, Best Of The Best is an album that you can respect and paints a solid picture of Sinatra's work. Even if you don't think Sinatra is your thing - this record should be used as the test!

Frank Sinatra Website
Frank Sinatra Facebook
Capitol Records
Reprise Records
EMI Music

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Peggy Sue: Acrobats

2011-11-11T07:00:00.002-05:00

Peggy Sue
Acrobats
Yep Roc Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Peggy Sue return quickly with a new album and a new sound that should capture some fans with its burning intensity!

Album Review:
Sometimes music is all about the risk and that is exactly what London's Peggy Sue have taken on their sophomore record Acrobats. The group just released their debut last year but Fossils And Other Phantoms [2010] was a much quieter folk affair compared to the new rock direction and sound that gives Acrobats its heartbeat. It is a move that could have blown up in the trio's face but instead has opened up a door that is built on their musical talent and given Peggy Sue an edge that was not quite developed on their debut yet. Acrobats is not only about the sultry duel vocals of Katy Klaw and Rosa Rex but the intricate instrumentation that sets the intense tone of the record, as producer John Parish (PJ Harvey, Eels, Sparklehorse) gets the most out of their revved guitars and busting amps. The instruments alone can hold your attention as Peggy Sue have successfully channeled their early influences here in The Breeders and Sonic Youth while harnessing their inner fever for a more rock oriented sound. Acrobats gets better after every spin and with Peggy Sue you will find something new around every smoldering corner, which is just part of the fun!

Key Tracks: "Cut My Teeth", "All We'll Keep", "Song & Dance"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Helium
Dum Dum Girls
PJ Harvey

Peggy Sue: Fossils And Other Phantoms [Fire Note Review 6/1/10]

Peggy Sue Website
Peggy Sue Facebook
Yep Roc Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony

Real Estate: Days

2011-11-10T07:00:00.013-05:00

Real Estate
Days
Domino Records [2011]

Fire Note Says: Real Estate not only avoid the sophomore slump but surpass their excellent debut with the infectious Days!

Album Review:
Simplistic splendor is one way to describe the sophomore full length, Days, from New Jersey's Real Estate. The album has a pure flow to it that carries the listener from track to track, which all starts with the soft vocal delivery of singer/guitarist Martin Courtney. His voice has an internal struggle with the surrounding music but it is a fight that has one winner being Real Estate because with no dominating factors, Days emerges stronger. The band already had an excellent debut but not only does Real Estate avoid the sophomore slump but they edge out their first record here with an album that is tighter, more refined, and full of graceful pop gems. Real Estate successfully always give you a memorable rhythm combined with circular riffs as every track here can stand alone regardless of time or tempo. It is this timeless appeal that ultimately wins, as the catchy "It's Real" only runs 2:49 but completely delivers, while the equally engaging closer, "All The Same", passes the 7 minute mark as its last 4 instrumental minutes showcase the bands intricate guitar work and fades into the sunset. A perfect closer to a near perfect album - Real Estate has made another great one!

Key Tracks: "It's Real", "All The Same", "Out Of Tune"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Yo La Tengo
Girls
The Feelies

Real Estate: Reality EP [Fire Note Review 1/15/10]
Real Estate: Real Estate [Fire Note Review 12/10/09] [#6 Top 50 2009]

Real Estate Website
Real Estate Facebook
Domino Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony