Birds Of Tokyo
Since forming in 2004, Birds of Tokyo has created quite a name for themselves, not just in their native home land of Western Australia, but across the world. With the bands second album ‘Universes’, which has been released independently, they have created ten tunes that have been integrated with catchy guitar hooks and soaring vocals, then built upon with various other elements. The one consistent component each and every tune has in common is the volume, it should be best heard LOUD!
Through many of the songs there is a sense of eeriness, a misty and mysterious atmosphere that never quite seems to fully subside. However there is a little glimpse of bright light with the vocals of Ian Kenny; this is something that can be detected straight away. For much of the time this mysterious ambiance is created by darkened guitar melodies, but there are a few that are more upbeat and lighter such as ‘Wild Eyed Boy’ and ‘White Witch’. Among the darker natured songs, there are the odd few of a slower pace such as ‘Head in my Hands’. In the centre of some of the tracks there are guitar solos. Birds of Tokyo guitarist Adam Spark shows he knows his music when he settles for milder solos rather than advanced electric rhythms as this would have upset the tone of the songs. Because of this method, the guitars never overpower the rest of the song. To conclude the release is the fabulous acoustic ‘Medicine’. This song stands very strong alongside the alternative tracks with its gentle keys and scrumptious vocals.
The vocal harmonies begin to blend together as the album starts, but as it progresses, they really begin to filter through. First there is the odd moment in choruses where a second vocal can be identified and then a full-blown harmonious segment erupts through tracks like ’Armour for Liars’. ‘Universes’ is a very impressive release by one of Australia’s finest exports.