Bell X1 is one of the biggest bands in Ireland, and finally making their “it’s-about damn-time” play for the States with Flock, an album that was released across the pond several years ago. It’s brimming with remarkably catchy, full-bodied, shimmering “choons” that mix the playfulness of Modest Mouse with the natural anthemic instincts of their more famous Irish brethren. The first three songs are practically guaranteed megahits: “Rocky Took a Lover” with its smirking yet delicate depiction of a poetic, private conversation; “Flame” and its barn-burning, knee-stomping, hand-clapping fireside celebration; and the stunning “Eve, The Apple of My Eye” which is destined for a million sad-eyed mix-tapes and melodramatic TV show montages (although it deserves more than such certain mass-marketed typecasting). This is not Snow Patrol, part deux. Those boys don’t play cowbell, or have nearly as much fun as this pub-hopping, winking, charming, hootin and hollerin’ band of Bellies do. (Yep Roc) –Carrie Alison

Related Posts