Entries Tagged 'Brief Album Reviews' ↓

If Blaqk Audio’s single “Stiff Kittens” is any indication of the awesomeness of their upcoming album Cexcells, then it will truly be a treat when it’s released next week. Blaqk Audio is AFI’s Davy and Jade’s dark electronic side project. Their first album will be released next Tuesday.

If you have ever listened to an AFI album, you know that there are hints of electronica, so it’s really no surprise that two of the members have embarked upon this journey. I know that a lot of people would probably rather see these two fellows put their efforts toward another AFI record, but for me this is a great break from the norm.

What I hear in this single (and what will hopefully materialize in the album) is a mix of Depeche Mode, The Sisters of Mercy, a touch of Nine Inch Nails, with some pretty heavy trance thrown in for good measure. This covers two of my favorite bands, as well as some of my favorite genres, so I’m a happy camper.

I wish there were more to say, but until the album comes out it’s hard to give a full scale review. Look for one next week though once the album is out.

Although The White Stripes new album Icky Thump isn’t even out yet, you have probably heard their noisy, bluesy, screechy, and unforgivably catchy new single “Icky Thump.” You know, the one with the staccato, almost sing-songy or childish guitar breaks that almost sould like it bagpipes emanating between super catchy White Stripes trademark blues grooves. Yeah, you know the song (if not, it’s available on iTun es right now, and is well worth the $.99).

If you are a White Stripes fan, or like good music of any kind, Icky Thump doesn’t disappoint. I always feel like the best albums, and the ones I end up liking forever, are the ones that take a few listens to really appreciate. Icky Thump is no exception. The first time through I was not all that excited about the album, but on the third listen, the magic present in Icky Thump made itself abundantly clear.

The track that really stands out for me is “Rag & Bone,” which is all about Jack and Meg either going to yard sales or just trying to get free stuff from people. Jack and Meg’s conversations in the middle of the song are what really do it for me, and actually make me laugh every time. Plus the combination of Jack’s groovy blues riffing and Meg’s incessantly catchy pounding really makes this song. It has the feel of classic blues rock, created for no reason except to groove your balls off. And it works beautifully.

That’s not to say that the other tracks aren’t equally strong. There isn’t a single song that I have started skipping, which says alot since I have probably been through this album close to ten times so far.

My recommendation is pick it up as soon as you can. You won’t be sorry.

AFI’s latest release, DECEMBERUNDERGROUND, is arguably their best effort yet. I just picked it up yesterday, and have listened to it two and a half times so far. I am extremely happy with the album, and there aren’t any tracks yet that I find myself skipping.

AFI has gone from a pretty pure punk band with goth sensibilities to a truly dynamic punk/rock band with some elements of electronica thrown in for good measure. This is the first album where their electronic tendencies have really come alive, and it works beautifully. They definitely had some electronica elements in the past, but on DECEMBERUNDERGROUND they have given the electronica elements a life of their own, and made the an essential part of this album.

As a huge Nine Inch Nails and Ministry fan, I live for heavy electronic rock, and DECEMBERUNDERGROUND delivers. I wish AFI a long and successful career, and believe that if they keep delivering albums like this, it won’t be a problem for them at all.

I would like to announce a soon-to-be ongoing series here at LiamFerris.com of brief album reviews. Not that the concept needs much explanation, but what I’m going to do is post the album artwork, some info about the band, and some brief thoughts about the album. Some albums may be old, some may be new, some may suck, and some may be great. I’ll try to dig into the vault and share some old favorites as well as talk about some new stuff too.

So don’t expect any amazing musical analysis, and definitely don’t expect any music snobbery. This is purely for fun, and to try and share some great (and maybe some not so great) music with all y’all. Enjoy!