Friendly Fires is a band/artist who I remarkably discovered through MTV (MTVAM, basically when they actually show videos at 4 in the morning when I can't sleep). I haven't stopped listening to them. Review begins... now...
1. Jump in the Pool - What a perfect beginning song. First off, I'd describe their sound as some sort of mix between M83, MGMT, and any British new wave-type band that doesn't suck. The intro is very M83-esque, very atmospheric, sounding like a large group of beautiful electronic angels singing in unison. The song proceeds in a very catchy manner, displaying that lead vocalist Ed MacFarlane is both a very skilled singer and entertaining one. It displays the same sort of pop sensibility found in the best songs in my previous review of Good Shoes, but with far more interesting musicianship. 4 Stars ****
2. In The Hospital - Possibly my least favorite song on the album. It has a laid-back feel, but the sound of some of the lamer new-wave bands in the 80's. Not feeling it. 1 star *
3. Paris - Back to the good stuff. Starts kind of slow... on first listen I actually was expecting it to be another dud. But it contains a very dancable groove that only halts during the first chorus, which is sublimely sung between guest female vocals and the lead singer. I can see why this was one of their singles. 4 stars ****
4. White Diamonds - I have a feeling this is one of those songs that I love, but very few people will understand why. The song builds up nicely to the chorus. The chorus just rocks out and makes the entire song. I love songs that finish strong, and this is a great example of one that does just that. The song comes to an almost stop, then has their version of a breakdown, then continues to rock out for the remainder of the song. I guess I was expecting this to be more of an electronic album, but the sum of it appeals to fans of many different genres. This is one of the four songs from the album that I've had on constant repeat. 5 stars *****
5. Strobe - This is another one that I'd have a hard time explaining to people. Or at least why I love it. The chorus is "After all this time, who would've thought I need you here". I guess it taps into my more emotional side, being a nostalgic take on love, or at the very least, attraction. The music flows just beautifully through the chorus. It's probably one of the few songs on the album that I'd say the production is flawless. 5 stars *****
6. On Board - I can't exactly think on who I'd expect this song out of... but it sounds like someone I don't like. I'm not feeling it at all. 0 stars
7. Lovesick - Another danceable tune that really kicks it back to the 80's. The first verse comes in like a soundtrack to a bad skiing or karate movie. But luckily the chorus saves it and suddenly everything makes sense. It's strange how a part of the song can seem to suck to me, and then suddenly it sounds much better as part of a cohesive whole. I think this song might the best at displaying the lead singer's vocal range. 3 stars ***
8. Skeleton Boy - What can I say? I'm absolutely obsessed with this song. It's absolutely my song of the year so far, a perfect mixture of everything that makes this band an exciting one. I really don't need to say much more. 6 stars ****** (yes, six stars, for those who aren't aware it means it's fucking awesome)
9. Photobooth - Not feeling it either. Unfortunately one of the album's duds. 0 stars
10. Ex Lover - Some interesting sounds to begin the song, mixing in a little learned from My Bloody Valentine's billion dollar sessions (not the movie, stupid). I really want to like this song, but I feel like it never quite comes together the way I'd like it to. 1 stars *
Overall: Great new album. 4 Stars ****/6
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