Friendly Fires - Friendly Fires

The debut self-titled album from Friendly Fires has really surprised me. At first, I wasn't too keen, but it slowly got the better of me and is currently a daily fixture in my music world. It reminds of Foals with a synthy/disco element à la Hercules & Love Affair and MGMT. I was interested to see that the Hertfordshire group consider German label Kompakt, techno pioneer Carl Craig and Prince to be among their greatest influences.
The influence of electronic music is everywhere on this album. The sound is fresh but also feels distinctly familiar. Stand-out track 'Jump In The Pool' is feel-good funk, layered but not choking and with a very airy feeling througout.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable, catchy pop album that does not take itself too seriously. It is an easy listen with a dance groove to keep the listener involved.

Friendly Fires - 'Jump In The Pool'

As far as I can see there are no up-coming Irish dates schuduled but that is likely to change soon. Friendly Fires are currently on tour with Lykke Li in the U.S. and will tour Europe with Foals starting mid-November.

The brilliant Jape recently toured the U.K. with the St. Alban lads and the track below has been circulating as a result. Well worth a listen.

Jape - 'Strike Me Down'(Friendly Fires Remix)

Friendly Fires by the Friendly Fires is availalbe to purchase here.

www.myspace.com/friendlyfires