Howling Bells: Radio Wars
Howling Bells sing of Radio Wars on album two
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Thursday, 05, Feb 2009 10:36
Independiente, out February 9th.
In a nutshell...
Bittersweet, swooping, sexy vocals alongside pop-driven guitar beats.
What's it all about?
Follow-up second album to the successful self-titled debut; Radio Wars consists of ten tracks with a short interlude tying the songs together. A departure from the sound of their atmospheric first album, displaying their efforts to launch into the mainstream indie-rock market.
Who's it by?
The Howling Bells are an Australian act hailing from Sydney. They were previously known as Waikiki but then the group split up, reformed and changed their name in 2004 with new band members. They experienced some small success in Australia as Waikiki, then moved to England to play and record. One can hear the similarities between the two outfits due to the unmistakeable vocal style of Juanita Stein who moved in to play guitar in the newly-formed group. As well as changing their name and location, their sound changed from a guitar-pop based sound to a more dark rock sound. The Howling Bells released their first self-titled album with Bella Union in 2006 to rave reviews, and were also named as an up and coming act to watch by NME. This is their second album released under a different label Independiente, leading with the catchy single "Into the Chaos".
As an example...
"Radio Wars/Change the stationMmy digital heart/Is suddenly breaking/I'll never hear my favourite song again." - Digital Hearts
Likelihood of a trip to the Grammys
Although the unmistakable talent of Juanita Stein and brother Joel is apparent once again on this album, it seems they haven't quite hit the nail on the head. While their last album showed glimmers of greatness, the follow-up fails to deliver anything more. Fans that favour the pop-rock side of their songs will still appreciate this album for what it is, yet those that were converted by their darker rock sound may be a little disappointed with this one.
What the others say
"Howling Bells seem to be facing an identity crisis over whether to appeal to the masses or a more niche market. If they are going for the latter they have failed completely. If shooting for the former they are going to have to ramp up their hooks. Because like it or hate it, even new-era Kings of Leon has memorable choruses." - wirelessbollinger.com
"Lead single Cities Burning Down is a fully realised pop gem, which is both dark and beautiful, full of allegory and laden with gilted guitars. The Bells' critically acclaimed self-titled debut, through Bella Union, received rave reviews in NME and Pitchfork, and this longplayer could help cement their position as pioneers of eerie indie." - musicweek.com
So is it any good?
In my eyes the Howling Bells were onto something good with their debut album. The best gloomy rock to come out of Australia since Nick Cave; a breath of fresh air away from all the aspiring Brit-indie style outfits that Australian bands seem to try to emulate all too often. This album signals a step away from this style, stepping into mainstream territory. It chooses to tone down the dark, angry atmosphere in favour of room-filling pop anthems. Although some fans may see this as a departure from their signature sound, their heartbroken lyrics and Juanita's eerie, yet sexy vocals will keep people listening and possibly win some new fans.
Regardless of this new sound, some tracks, including the singles Into the Chaos and Cities Burning Down are catchy enough to make this album a keeper. The second half of the album is definitely stronger and more definitive of the band's signature atmospheric rock. So skip to that half if you find yourself pining for the 'old stuff', as I did. In the end, albums don't win true fans 'til they make people feel something. Whilst the last album left me feeling like lighting a cigarette and walking onto the set of a black and white arthouse film, this latest offering left me feeling far less inspired. If their impressive live shows are anything to go buy, this album could sound a lot better in front of an audience.
6.5 /10
Gemma Alver