As a music lover, for me nothing compares to the feeling of listening to a band for the first time and instantly connecting with them. There's no element of uncertainty, no second listen required; some bands just have a certain spark and something just instantly clicks. That's how I'd describe my initial introduction to Phoenix, and in fact I was surprised to find out that they've released four albums and it's taken me until now to pick up on such a raw, natural talent! With an infectious electro-rock style and quirky likeability, the French quartet offer a unique, upbeat and refreshing take on indie music, interlaced with their signature frantic drumbeat and soft, bewitching vocals, it's no wonder their fourth studio album, 'Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix', went on to win a Grammy in January 2010. This album is most definitely worthy of a spotlight; it has a real addictive quality and an endearing warmth that strikes a chord and, quite frankly, is up there with some of the most impressive feel-good albums I've heard in recent years...
As is typical of all great albums, Phoenix kick off the record with a real gem to set the tone for the rest of the record. 'Lisztomania', which refers to the experience of 'fan frenzy' experienced by Hungarian composer and pianist, Franz Liszt, during his live performances, brings an inexplicable brightness and zeal to the record, its light bouncing rhythm channeling what is almost an air of nostalgia. It's most definitely an instant mood-lifter with a light, trippy vibe that strikes a chord from the first few notes and assures the listener that this will be an easy-listening experience. Lisztomania was the first song I heard by the Versailles-based indie starlets and was an fantastic choice for the album opener; it really sold the band's sound to me and, in my opinion, hooking listeners with the album's first track is of paramount importance. Phoenix certainly manage to achieve this with Lisztomania; it still remains a real stand-out track for me in the band's four album-strong discography.
Of particular interest to me is the recurring references to classical music figures within the album, the most obvious perhaps being the fact that the album itself is in fact named after prolific composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who rose to prominence in the 18th century Europe. This links in with the band's use of the term 'Lisztomania' for their album opener as I mentioned before. Whilst the band themselves are far from the realms of classical musical in terms of style and genre, they definitely hold a certain kind of classic quality, a timeless elegance and longevity to their music and a distinctive sound that is carried throughout their discography.
The album moves into another bright electro-infused track, '1901', which really leaves a striking impression on listeners with its relentless buzzing electronic back beat, complimented by the rise and fall of lead singer, Thomas Mars', staccato vocals, all working collaboratively to achieve a summery yet sophisticated song with beautifully effortless sunny undertones, contrasting with the heavy underlying beat (well, if you call indie music heavy!). The record definitely carries a European feel and I actually really enjoy the subtle French accent coming through; I think it adds a really fresh, cosmopolitan feel to Phoenix's music.
Definitely the stand-out track of the album, the third song, 'Fences', carries beautiful examples of the signature electronic undercurrent the band seem to be so adept at using, plus a soft underlying drum beat which most definitely manages to make its presence felt without imposing itself too heavily on what is a veritably smooth and mellow track. Going back to the idea of nostalgia, what really amazes me about this song and about the album in general is the way it seems to channel a hazy warmth that makes the listener feel reminiscent of times gone by and fills them with a dizzy euphoria that can only be captured by the most creative artists.
The soft and airy vocals on other tracks on the album such as 'Rome' and 'Girlfriend' add to this stunning combination of musical elements that can be drawn from the album; the merging of soft rock beats and electro vibes which consolidate the album as rock royalty on the indie music scene. Mars' shiver-inducing vocals on this record really set it apart from others of its kind and add a novel, replenishing sound, quenching the listener's thirst for songs that are easy to listen to, yet bursting with flavour and originality. Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix does exactly that.
Following the album's release and an electrifying 2010 world tour, Mars and co. seem to have their heads screwed on pretty tightly as far as their musical career is concerned. Having been supported by now-prestigious bands such as the ever-growing Two Door Cinema Club, perhaps Phoenix have a certain magic touch with regards to musical success because they certainly don't seem to be showing any signs of stopping any time soon! If you haven't heard it already, this album is most definitely a must-listen.
Definitely the stand-out track of the album, the third song, 'Fences', carries beautiful examples of the signature electronic undercurrent the band seem to be so adept at using, plus a soft underlying drum beat which most definitely manages to make its presence felt without imposing itself too heavily on what is a veritably smooth and mellow track. Going back to the idea of nostalgia, what really amazes me about this song and about the album in general is the way it seems to channel a hazy warmth that makes the listener feel reminiscent of times gone by and fills them with a dizzy euphoria that can only be captured by the most creative artists.
The soft and airy vocals on other tracks on the album such as 'Rome' and 'Girlfriend' add to this stunning combination of musical elements that can be drawn from the album; the merging of soft rock beats and electro vibes which consolidate the album as rock royalty on the indie music scene. Mars' shiver-inducing vocals on this record really set it apart from others of its kind and add a novel, replenishing sound, quenching the listener's thirst for songs that are easy to listen to, yet bursting with flavour and originality. Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix does exactly that.
Following the album's release and an electrifying 2010 world tour, Mars and co. seem to have their heads screwed on pretty tightly as far as their musical career is concerned. Having been supported by now-prestigious bands such as the ever-growing Two Door Cinema Club, perhaps Phoenix have a certain magic touch with regards to musical success because they certainly don't seem to be showing any signs of stopping any time soon! If you haven't heard it already, this album is most definitely a must-listen.
Lisztomania - Phoenix
Fences - Phoenix
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