It is hard to pin down just exactly what type of music it is that Fang Island plays. Their music is all over the place. One moment they can be playing a full-out instrumental rock jam session, as heard in "Careful Crossers", to coming off a bit Animal Collective-ish like on track "Life Coach". If there were individual words to describe their music they would be "infectious" and "joyful". Jason Bartell, Fang Island's guitarist has previously said that Fang Island's goal is to "make music for people who like music". The band, who formed in Rhode Island but are now based in New York, have rubbed elbows with other artists such as Andrew W.K. and it is reflected in their material (just listen to that opening guitar riff in "Careful Crossers", sound like "Party Hard", anyone?). W.K. has always had that party it up and have a good time while maintaining a positive attitude mentality. Fang Island don't stray too far from that philosophy either. It then comes as no surprise that their Myspace page states that they sound like "everyone high-fiving everyone". What else do you get with this debut album? Fang Island gives you harmonized guitar work ("Illinois"), blistering solos ("Welcome Wagon"), a touch of Celtic rock ("Treeton"), wonderful organ work ("Dreams Of Dreams"), even an acoustic section in the song "Sidewinder" pops up and comes off as sounding a little too much like Mellencamp's "Jack & Diane". Upbeat tracks and four-part harmonies round out this album nicely; this is definitely a band to watch out for. Just like the fireworks sounds which begin and end the album, Fang Island's debut is something to be celebrated.
www.myspace.com/fangisland
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