27-12-2009Album reviews - Alexisonfire
A new album and a new perspective
Lead vocalist George's move to a more prominently hardcore based growl as opposed to his trademark metallic scream is a striking feature of Old Crows Young Cardinals and although it has divided opinion it shows a band not willing to sit still and who look to change stylistically with each release. Like the transition between the frantic first release to the far more vocally driven Watch Out and then to the more pop laden yet still standing totally on the outside on public norm with 'Watch Out.'
Beginning with an almost industrial sound to start the album 'Old Crows' ushers itself in with an upbeat but darkly tinged post punk driven intro, the bass sounding like the post-punk era that started with Joy Division . The vocals kick in with far more of a dirty grit than previously heard sounding a lot more prominent a decipherable. As the sung lines kick in it instantly harks back to the Alexisonfire of old with catchy hooks and looping vocal melodies over a simple yet effective guitar hook. Looping riffs that add obscurity and an extra dimension to the particularly groove laden chorus of 'We are not the kids we used to be' are impressive as the groove is infectious.
'Young Cardinals' is the song that started the debate over Old Crows standpoint amongst the other AOF releases and although definitely different in terms of approach it is a real gem. It has the power, intensity and also intelligence to allow each section; be it the roughly worded vocals, the prominent chorus led exquisitely by the formidably soulful croon of Dallas Green or the rest of the band each do their bit pulling together a watertight rhythm section that provides the basis for the triple vocal onslaught of George, Dallas and co.
'Sons of Privilege' features a sound that is apparent in a number of the songs on Old Crow's Young Cardinals, the discordant slide of the guitar chords put what would usually be an upbeat punk rock sequence into a slightly unassuming formation. The bridge section works well with the rolling snare leading in to the final culmination, although compared to some of the bands previous offerings the lyrical intertwines come across as relatively tame.
As the album continues the industrial elements of punk rock akin to Rise Against 'Siren Sound The Culture' production values and sounds come through. It appears restrained in its aggression and angst but there is always a feeling of something simmering beneath the surface, an explosion to be unleashed by the band whom are noted for their social conscious and the part it plays in their bands themes.
'The Northern' is a particular standout track which is repetitive in its structure but purposeful in exposing the so well documented beauty in Green's voice. Although interjections in the form of short scream interludes and the occasionally well placed gang vocal this song is really focussing the listener into what they should already know, this is a band blessed with one of the best voices in the entire alternative industry.
'Midnight Regulations' and 'Emerald Street' continue with the fracas and expose the lyrical content and themes taking on a number of modern day issues. 'Heading Fun The Sun' is emphatic in its opening delivery although it is on this song that George's new approach seems at odds with the rest of the music and its general coherence doesn't match the rest of Old Crows Young Cardinals. 'Accept Crime' has great lyrics that categorize a youth and even manages to throw in a minimalistic solo. 'Burial' is a departure from the intensity and aggression of the previous 11 tracks and mixes swirling guitars, luscious vocal melodies and a more symphonic backing section.
There isn't one bad track on this album although there aren't quite as many standout tracks as was the case with earlier releases. I put this down to the listener now being accustomed to what to expect from each aspect of the band's sound and as such literally bowling us over with something new, unique and majestic isn't as easy any more. After a few more listens I'm sure it will be a 'grower' but considering I already rate this album as a four out of five it's going to be tough to keep rising!
28-11-2009Live review - Alexisonfire
The inaugural Eastpak tour made its stop on a sullen Manchester Sunday evening. Championing a punk rock ethos with a ranging spectre of acts the bands will inevitably aim to bring a spirit and warmth to what's proving to be yet another glum UK Winter. First up are Brit hopefuls The Ghost Of A Thousand and after a fruitful year waste no time in proving their inclusion on tonight's billing. It's a very early start though, even by Manchester Academy's already rigid stage times which means that many of the neutral fans that the band wanted to showcase their blend of scourging dynamic punk infused metallic hardcore are still trying to cover themselves for the rain and negate the lengthy queue to get inside.
Those who are there though seem to know exactly what this band are all about and are obviously privy to the fact that they thrive on audience interaction. A wall of death that seems so accustomed now at a TGOAT show makes an appearance early on and still has the intensity that it bore in all the tiny club venues the band has worked their way through. Unfortunately the time is limited and after a manic twenty five minutes which sees hugely impressive renditions of 'Bright Lights,' and 'Knees, Toes Teeth' as standout tracks from new album 'New Hopes, New Demonstrations' and even an older track such as the powerhouse 'Black Art Number One' the band seem so confident within their operation. A great opening for the evening raising the bar high for the next bands and showing that the UK are still producing worthy punk rock bands.
For Year Strong play with an energy and intensity even if the music at times does lack imagination, like A Day To Remember or other mosh-core namesakes they blend catchy and anthem infused hooks, constituting killer sing-along's and bouncing rhythms. After the feeling of passion for the music displayed by TGOAT the bands in between song banter falls somewhat vacant on an audience set up for something more than toilet humor, as entertaining as it is. The band power through a number of songs and the now quickly filling venue becomes more warming to the bands not so serious demeanor, heads start bouncing and smiles start appearing by the time the band play themselves out.
Punk rock's pioneers Anti-Flag are next up and after catching them at this year's Leeds Festival and being unexpectedly impressed even with my five day hangover reigning supreme meant this was something I was really looking forward to. Unfortunately something just isn't quite right with tonight's performance. Simplistic chords sliding across the fret board and up tempo drumming are the order of the songs and they spill out lyrics of unity, community and a punk spirit of the people. Yes they bear a good message but the delivery at this show in particular was weak, the power didn't manage to convey itself past the hardcore fans there to see their late 80's heroes congregated in the front ten rows and as such left many looking unimpressed and eager for the night's main attraction.
Alexisonfire seem to be a stalwart of the touring circuit having passed through this city and its numerous venues on many occasions since the release of their first album. Having seen the progression from the Roadhouse through the Academy's and now to the near sold out Main Academy the band come to the stage and are showing the stature of a band with their immeasurable ability. The clean cut emo-ish image has all but been eradicated and before me stand five Canadian dirty rocking punks. Screamer George has developed a presence and aura that matches his new found guttural punk drawl that replaced his once metallic scream. Dallas doesn't go into the croon instead using is exquisite vocal ability to harmonize without losing intensity or aggression within the song and the band have swagger as the belt out the songs which sends the majority of the room into a frenzy. An appearance of older song 'Water Wings' is rapturously applauded from its announcement and the room surges into movement in all directions. New songs are equally well received like 'This Could Be Anywhere' mixes with earlier song from the Watch Out! CD with a personal favorite of Get Fighted being one of the nights highlights. One half of the title track of new EP 'Young Cardinals' has the crowd united in singing along to the chorus although there is still some convincing required with other new material from 'Old Crows, Young Cardinals.' This is a brilliant CD but the lack of movement means that people have either not listened to it yet or are not giving it the chance it deserves. Not like it matters much to the band and as 'Happiness By The Kilowatt' closes the evening the band stand up and take their applause like men sitting atop of the world.
