Search - Andrew Bird :: Thrills

I?m Gonna Skip This Town and Head on Down to Louisiana

timorous me | philadelphia | 06/27/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Fans of the Squirrel Nut Zippers shouldn't be surprised if they find the music of Andrew Bird and his infamous Bowl of Fire to be particularly pleasing. Bird himself moonlights as a guest violinist for the Zippers, and has snatched away the talent of their female vocalist, Katharine Whalen, for this musical gem. Reader beware, however, that the stylings here are far different than the big band/swing of their squirrely counterparts. They are, perhaps, far more unique. The gypsy-like music sounds authentic, and evokes the idea of folk in a far different way than that which Bob Dylan has popularized. This is folklore, twisting bits of bluegrass, eastern European, jazz, and even, seemingly, Jewish/Israeli folk songs into the mix. The gypsy theme ties everything together, but an errant guitar riff or a stand-up bass throw all predictability out the window. Furthermore, the music is consistently and intentionally tinged with a static that adds to the mystery and that "old time" feel. Likewise, the lyrics are brilliant. Bird is known for penning intelligent lyrics, and "Thrills" certainly corroborates this affirmation. Whalen's wails are still reminiscent of Billie Holiday, but her croons are sadder, more serious. "That blissful dream of childhood has ended," she laments on the seventh track, "A Woman's Life and Love". Bird's lyrics have changed her tone completely. A favorite lyric comes from the enigmatically named "Eugene": "Studies have shown/That we like sheep are prone/To sure fatal doses/Of malcontent through osmosis/But don't be sympathetic/Just pass the anesthetic/Because sheep are benign/And on the young we will dine". Cynical, perhaps, but assuredly insightful. Unlike many groups, where either the lyrics or the music are "take it or leave it", Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire weaves the two together so well that it's almost impossible to imagine one without the other.
Certainly, "Thrills" is a one-of-a-kind, unprecedented album. It sweeps the listener into smoky lounges, gypsy campfires, and circle dances ... all at once, somehow. The album reeks of cool; Bird has created perhaps a most unique genre of modern music that, as of yet, no one has been able to match."

Good but not as good as Oh! The Grandeur

sibyllinewitch | Austin, TX | 12/14/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a good CD though I was wanting something more like his "Oh! The Grandeur" which was more violin. This album is much closer to the Squirrel Nut Zipper sound. Which if you are not burnt out on that sound, is great. Just though I'd let people know what to expect. Enjoy!"

Ultimate HotSwing masterpiece by violin virtuoso Bird & Band

zebra@xnet.com | USA | 06/08/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire CD entitled THRILLS is a compelling compilation of multicultural, literary music that evolved from the swing band tunes of the 1920's-40's. Bird, who avoids pop music, does not merely ressurrect grand old tunes but he reinvents hot swing numbers reminiscent of this era with incredible intellectual finesse. Like a musical alchemist, His creations combine the eclectic elements of hot jazz, calypso, gypsy, blues & Irish folk into a golden, multicultural genre that could be appropriately named "Hot EURO-Swing."Bird weilds his bow masterfully like a musical Van Gogh dipping into a pallette full of colorful lyrics, and painting powerful portraits of the characters living in his songs. Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire THRILLS CD is undoubtedly the cure for musical enui/ monochromatic music. This music has a levitating effect on listeners that enhances libido (musical ecstacy) & elevates mood similar to hypnosis therapy. Experience the thrill of discovering these immensely talented rising stars of hot swing; i.e. hurry up & buy this CD before it's sold out."