Burning Airlines
Identikit
»
Burning Airlines
Identikit
DeSoto, 2001
RiYL: Jawbox, Fugazi, Cursive, Faraquet |
Even with the lineup change, Identikit has a similar sound to Mission: Control! (catchy melodies, dissonant guitars, driving drums, etc.), but goes a little further with the incredible amount of variety. What's amazing is that each track has its own special hook or style that make each song easily recognizable, vital for an album with 15 songs. Each power-packed post-punk anthem captures the energy and excitement of the trio. Whereas Mission: Control's last half was spread a little thin, Identikit continually engages you throughout the album.
Unfortunately, this excess amount of variety is also where Identikit falls short. Even though each song has its own special hook, many follow a similar formula in song structure, causing the album to seem drawn out and a bit on the boring side. It almost seems that they crammed these songs on one album just because they didn't want to waste any of them. A more selective choice of songs could have made the album more cohesive and enjoyable.
But when Burning Airlines are on, boy can they rock. The album begins with "Outside the Aviary," a typical Burning Airlines in-your-face rock fest that sets the tone and aggression for the remainder of the album. Later, the bouncy "A Lexicon" busts in with a sound that echoes "Pacific 231" and "Escape Engine" from Mission: Control!. "A Song With No Words" follows, and sees Burning Airlines exploring new sounds. The album ends with a haunting acoustic number.
The progression between these two albums is not indicative of a new direction, but Identikit makes a mark of its own and showcases Burning Airlines' expanding musical ideas. With this new album and recently added keyboardist/guitarist Ben Pape, the future of Burning Airlines looks as bright as my whites.
MARVIN LIN |