Something Like Sound

There is a sort of joyful bounce that winds itself along the melodies throughout Glory, the premiere full-length album from Denver-based Flashbulb Fires. Formerly known as Fiancé, Flashbulb Fires has taken the accessible piano-pop-rock format and produced a solid album with considerable replay value. Glory certainly appeals to fans of The Fray, but also draws enough parallels to the likes of Arcade Fire and Sufjan Stevens to be acceptable by the most staunch non-conformist music aficionados.

From the first two tracks, “Pyramid Scheme” and “Revenge Song,” it becomes obvious that the listener is in for a treat. The songs do a good job of setting up the tone for the rest of the album while showcasing the Flashbulb Fires sound at its best. While a general theme threads its way through the album, each song maintains a certain air of individuality. This, in and of itself, makes Glory one of those albums that has excellent replay value.

“Rope and River” combines Sufjan-esque bells and piano with moody vocal delivery similar to Eleanor (another Denver band). In stark contrast “Brunette” is a short, poppy number that sounds like it could be a television theme song. Toward the end of the album “Ambulance” turns up the folk with soft slide guitar, harmonized vocals, and acoustic guitar.

Flashbulb Fires will officially release Glory on December 18 at the Hi-Dive. Also playing that night are Danielle Ate The Sandwich and Kissing Party. Free downloads of the tracks “Revenge Song” and “Ambulance” are available at www.flashbulbfires.com.

Listen to “Ambulance” (via OneTrackMind)

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