The Kamikaze Hearts - Oneida Road
Whilst the idea of Americana folk-rock may put off the uninitiated, this album comes highly recommended.
When a new record label releases the UK debut of a relatively unknown artist, you'd better hope it's a good one. Luckily, in the case of The Kamikaze Hearts and Tangled Up Recordings, it really is.
Americana folk-rock may not be on the bleeding-edge of popular music, but this beard-toting New York fivesome have managed to craft an uplifting and catchy debut which captures not only the spirit of America, but also the heart of anyone listening to it.
'Oneida Road' is a charming album. That really is the best way to describe it - it's simply charming. The opening track, 'Top Of Your Head' will give you a good idea of what you're in for with the rest of the album; the beat plods along, as the vocal stylings of frontman Matthew Loiacono bleed sincerity all over the up-strummed acoustic guitar.
The instrumentation on display here is incredible; 'Oneida Road' features not only the standard guitar/bass/drums combo, but also manages to factor in mandolins and banjos - a rarity in much of the indie scene today. It's hard to truly compare this band to any other, but there are definitely shades of the legendary Midlake, along with other influences ranging in scope from Simon and Garfunkel to The Eagles.
Whilst the idea of Americana folk-rock may put off the uninitiated, this album comes highly recommended. From the undeniably inspirational lyrics to the uplifting sound of the mandolins, it's just great beginning to end. The only thing to watch out for is the second track, 'Defender' which actually brings to mind images of monks performing plainsong (it's one that needs to be heard) - that's not necessarily a bad thing, though, as experimentation is always commendable.
Standout tracks here are 'Top Of Your Head' and 'Ash Wednesday', although each song has its own individual merits that all come together to form an excellent example of a band doing something original – and doing it very well.
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