Firebird Band - The Drive

  by Mark Rowland

published: 17 / 12 / 2001

Label: Headhunter
Format: CD

intro

Once considered the side project of Braid's Christopher Broach and Pilots in Hiatus' Andy Hawthorne, The Firebird Band have now become a much more serious band, and 'The Drive' showcases just how grea

Once considered the side project of Braid's Christopher Broach and Pilots in Hiatus' Andy Hawthorne, The Firebird Band have now become a much more serious band, and 'The Drive' showcases just how great a band they can be.'Summertime Boyfriend' opens the album with Aphex-style breaks, distorted bass, subtle guitars and synths, and great vocals, like AFI's Davey Havok covering an Underworld song. This leads into 'The Drive' itself, a more guitar-based affair similar to 'Fool's Gold' era Stone Roses, only with a better singer. "Distance" is the most down-tempo track on the EP, and adss some extra colour to their palate, while 'The Runaway' sees the welcome return of the breakbeat, which combined with synth wibble and guitar, is reminiscent of Tortoise's post-lounge-rock sound. 'Wish' is the most electronic song, with muffled vocals and a brilliant synth riff. It's hard to believe, but the Firebird Band simply do not do unlikeable tracks. Easily the best record of month. No contest.

Track Listing:-