Flashguns : 'Matching Hearts, Similar Parts'
.jpg)
Released: 13th July 2009
Label: Blue Flowers / Geffen
Having secured slots at a plethora of festivals throughout the summer, Flashguns were already well set to be the name on people's lips during the coming months. Add to this the impressive EP Matching Hearts, Similar Parts and the band are sure to enjoy a summer unlike any other.
The 4 track disc is an accurate summation of Flashguns talents, brimming with creativity, variety and hooks enough to ensnare any listener. Whilst Samuel Felix Johnston's vocals may take several listens to become accustomed to, the band merge structure and ingenuity to produce slick and highly listenable tracks. The use of strings and percussion provide a unique focal, with “Bells At Midnight” in particular combining crisp drumming and a clean glockenspiel to great effect. Blended with simple yet effective guitaring it makes for a refreshing change. Opening track “I Don't Not Love You” takes a more traditional approach without sacrificing any pace or rhythm. It's contagious beat and sparkling melody are close to irresistible, with a late flurry of percussion blending effortlessly into what is already a lively track.
Final track “Racing Race” is undoubtedly the hero. Standing just short of 7 minutes, it's minimalist approach allows Felix Johnston's voice to soar above the delightfully bluesy riff and retro guitars. In this environment the vocalist is undoubtedly in his element and he puts in a performance of high calibre to steal the track. Demonstrating restraint and patience the track builds to a crescendo before fading away to a smattering of blues guitar. The track is a testament to the vision and talent of Flashguns, as is the whole EP, and is something that will no doubt become more apparent to a wider audience in the very near future.
Words: Dan Grose
Write a comment
- Required fields are marked with *.
-->