Here's a debut helping from one of Radio One's favourite bands in the world right now; Friendly Fires. Resonating from St. Albans, Radio One would have you believe they're set for world domination. Far be it from me to be the critic here, but here we go...
Released originally in September last year, it's due for re-release at the end of August, with the addition of some new material including the brand new track "Kiss of Life". This original outing however consists of ten dance-punk/synth-pop/whatever the new term is kind of tracks that are, even on first listen, pleasant listening pleasure.
Having recently been nominated for this year's Mercury Music Prize, opening track "Jump in the Pool" showcases just why they have been. It's sound is somewhat unique and unheard of. Combining big drums from the streets of the Rio carnival, along with synthesised vocals and funky guitar riffs. Looking at the wider picture, it's amazing that it's only ever reached a chart-high of number 36...well, that is until it gets re-released of course.
This formula for Jump in the Pool continues but at the same time, each track sounds uniquely different. Next up and "In The Hospital" again holds the funky element as is not too unlike a band such as Hot Chip when they're attempting this style. The "doo-da-do-da-do" is infectious and unavoidable.
"Paris" was showcases a lot by DJ's such as Zane Lowe and Scott Mills on Radio One and gave the band a heck of a lot of airtime near the start of the year. It's a medley of any kind of instrument you could ever think of combined to great effect. What appears to be a cowbell seems to do awfully well in this track!
As the album goes on each track familiarises itself with a band of the not-too-distant past, yet sounds unique at the same time. Having already mentioned Hot Chip, "White Diamonds" has an element of The Guillemots to begin with for example, before breaking away into a funky-guitar beat. "Skeleton Boy" has an uncanny like to "Play That Funky Music" by White Cherry to show how far and wide they selection their musical influences.
Often with albums, be it in 2009 or 20 years ago, often they can become monotonous and contain good old-fashioned filler tracks in amongst the obvious singles. But having been over it a couple of times now, it's hard to find any filler in amongst this. Each track has been meticulous put together by the four young lads from Hertfordshire so each one sounds like the next-big-sound.
For anyone into something a bit different, than Friendly Fires may be just the band for you. Don't expect hardcore trashy guitar riffs or heavy beating drum solos, just expect intelligent synth-pop from a band on the cusp of making it 'big'. For those lucky enough to already know about them, kudos to you. For those about to learn about them, you'll wish you already did. It's in the 2 for £10 range at HMV as I type...so go, go, go!
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Aug 31st, 2009
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