Broken Fires - Out of the Woods

Broken Fires

Out of the Woods
self-released; 2013

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The recently formed group Broken Fires is off to a good start. They started playing early this year and have already released a three-song EP entitled Out of the Woods, which contains tracks from their upcoming full length. The songs are well recorded with good production, have a ubiquitous appeal and are aesthetically appealing in numerous ways.

One of the most appealing aspects of the band is the energy they capture within their songs. It often feels like it is busting loose at the seams and is in constant motion. They don’t really have too much in common with Arcade Fire but they do have a similar cathartic aura, which makes the song feel alive.

The first track “Out of the Woods” starts with a steady kick drum and a simple yet effective two-chord guitar progression. The bass soon enters afterwards adding a warm low-end. The vocal melody, style and delivery are the components that carry the song. By the two-minute mark the band starts to release an upsurge of intensity; however the most engaging part is the end when they implement overlapping vocal harmonies. The vocalists sing, “This is not for the faint of heart, Must. Be. Strong. Enough. With the edge of the woods so far, Must. Be. Strong. Enough.”

“Vessels” is another good showing by the young band. It begins unassuming revolving around an acoustic guitar and a vocal melody. With almost no warning the song reaches fantastic heights by combining swirling vocals harmonies, distorted electric guitars, bass and drums. There is no denying this is a dynamic song that feels like a rollercoaster. 

They close with “Brick.Mortar.Stone,” which has one of the longest, splendid buildups I have heard in awhile. It’s an almost two-minute-long build up that  layers on vocals, guitars and bass as the drums slowly rise to a climax and release. 

Out of the Woods isn’t groundbreaking but it certainly should put these guys on your radar. It’s a very solid first showing from the band.

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