Birds of Tokyo

March Fires (EMI)

The new album from West Australian band Birds of Tokyo has a little bit of old and a little bit of new. “March Fires” delivers a strong anthemic feel, coupled with the sound from the band that has taken off over the last few years. This is the fourth studio album from Birds of Tokyo and it is a slight departure from their multi-platinum self-titled album, but features enough of the lead singer, Ian Kenny’s, soft and powerful vocals and the band’s guitar heavy style that fans of the 2010 release will come back to and enjoy. The tracks on the album feature common themes of coming together and renewal. First single off the album This Fire is a strong song and reflects the burning of the old and starting fresh. The band had added two new members and decided collectively to try something new. These motifs in the album and life of the band are most prominent in their new single Lanterns, a real highlight for the album. Other notable tracks to look out for are Boy, a softer track that compliments Ian Kenny’s beautiful vocals, Sirin which features a very strong rock sound and some nice little guitar licks, and eight-minute long White Leaves. “March Fires” is appropriately released on March 1.

[rating: 4/5]

Nick Linde