Just when I think I know something about this business something pops up and slaps me in the face to make me feel stupid. In this case “Firebird” makes me look like the true idiot you all know I am.When I read the initial press release about the release of “Double Diamond” I quickly saw the band is led by Grindcore legend Bill Steer. Steer was a long standing member of Napalm Death and the founding member of Carcass. Both bands are pretty much talked about as the leaders in the field that created some of the most aggressive music on earth.
With that behind us, I was a little curious as to why I have never listened to “Firebird” since this was their 6th studio album. After locking up all the weapons and bolting down anything I could smash I put on “Double Diamond” for a romp through the emotions of Grindcore.
Here’s the kicker and why I’m an idiot. Firebird is a classic rock band that is very rooted in the bluesy feel of the mid-70s. Not a bad thing, but not Grindcore. So I sat and listened the first time in the frame of mind of feeling stupid. The next question was should We Love Metal be covering this. I decided I would cover the album because Bill Steer, Ludwig Witt, and Greywin May have added greatly to Metal and if they choose to express themselves differently than the least we can do for their contributions is show proper respect and open listeners to a new experience.
Songs like “Soul Savior” and “Bright Lights” are classic rock rooted in the blues that started the foundations of metal. With a deep, rich feel you are taken to a generation that was experimenting with music and laying the groundwork for the music we listen to today.
More after the warp:
“Farewell” is my favorite track with its Southern Rock feel and silky vocals. The bass work is second to none and it’s refreshing to see Metalheads that are willing to expand their repertoire and show fans another side of their talent.
What amazes me about the entire Firebird project is the lack of criticism they get from the often close minded people associated with the metal world. Metallica’s Reload, Chris Cornell’s Scream, KISS’s Dynasty are prime examples of hard rockers changing their style. The heat those bands took was not only uncalled for, but astronomical.
I personally think the major difference is songs like “Arabesque” and “Pound of Flesh” appear to be written for the musical growth of the band. Nothing on Double Diamond shouted out mainstream or commercial. Nothing shouted out as project to prove something. In fact the album from start to finish is a major jam session by some very skilled and talented artists. Filled with classic riffs, startling hooks, and production value not available in the 70s; the band obviously made a record they would enjoy.
If you are a Napalm Death or Carcass fan you are going to want to pick up Double Diamond. The album may not have been written for you, but trust me when I say opening your mind and listening to the obvious roots of the music you love will make you a better connoisseur of music and a bigger fan of Bill Steer.
You can find further details at: www.firebirdhome.co.uk.
Show me your horns,
Martell
(Source)
