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Algernon Cadwallader

Parrot Flies

Written by: DR on 22/08/2011 17:59:15

There are currently quite a lot of mathy/indie/emo bands emerging in America, and Algernon Cadwallader are one of the more recognised and popular ones, having first established themselves with their debut, "Some Kind of Cadwallader", in 2008, and a handful of EPs since their inception.

Algernon Cadwallader are one of the more popular bands because they are excellent at what they do, without being particularly original. Obviously inspired by bands such as Cap'n Jazz and American Football, they combine complex instrumentation and time signatures, twinkly guitars and vocals that focus more on conveying emotion and the urgency of the lyrics rather than actually sounding 'good'.

There are two main reasons why "Parrot Flies" is an excellent album. Firstly, the musicianship is nothing short of wonderful throughout, especially considering that there are only three members. The three instruments all seem to be operating independently, free-flowing in their own imagination and thought procress, exemplified in efforts such as "Springing Leaks" and "Cruisin'", in which it seems like the band are having a jam-session, yet you get the impression there is a tightly-wound handle on where they are headed, controlled by the second reason: the energy of this band, not least in the vocals. They take no half-measures, they're throwing everything they have at this, which results in an infectious energy and passion throughout. Songs like "Sad" and "Pitfall" are particular stand-outs, but it's in "Glenwood Ave.", where their energy reaches new levels even for them, through it's use of strained-turned-screamed vocals and huge group sing-a-longs that make it one of the most addictive songs of the year so far and clear highlight of the album.

As creative as it is, "Parrot Flies" isn't particularly original; there is a clear influence from bands like Cap'n Jazz, American Football and Owls (you know, the Kinsella-brothers) and this band are not yet ready to escape such inevitable comparisons. But let's be honest, when you're being swept away by the enthusiasm and passion of this band, you're not going to care about that are you? As far as math/indie/emo/whatever you want to call it goes, you won't find many more listening experiences as delightful as "Parrot Flies".

Download: Glenwood Ave., Sad, Pitfall
For The Fans of: Cap'n Jazz, Snowing, Monument, American Football, Owls
Listen: Bandcamp

Release Date 22.08.2011
Big Scary Monsters