Arms – Kids Aflame Review
ARMS
Kids Aflame [Melodic 2008]
ARMS: An experimental fuse of raw audio and memorable riffs fronted by Harlem Shakes guitarist Todd Goldstein. Known for his ‘noisy’ avant-garde approach, Goldstein has a rare gift for shaping buzzing pop songs without falling victim to the ever-preying mediocrity that seems to haunt America’s contemporary indie circles. The album, Kids Aflame, is a satisfying compilation of lively songs which most alternative bands would claim in exchange for their beloved Fender Strats.
‘Whirring’ is undoubtedly the alternative anthem of the album, with its foot-tapping rhythm which is shaded by Goldstein’s catchy lyrics and strident bass. A song which would undeniably blend into an indie club’s DJ set, not unlike ‘Shitty Little Disco’ a brave venture into a darker form of pop, mingling bleak lyrics with repeated pinnacles of instrumental grandeur.
The popular single ‘Kids Aflame’ completes the collection, an upbeat mix of ukulele and melodica with that all-important humming background choir. This ballad-inspired song recalls everything that is most powerful about ARMS: Goldstein’s gift for alluring lyrics and flair for arranging strong instrumental compositions. Goldstein’s distinctive lilt compliments these captivating lyrics perfectly, and not without a hint of bitter hostility which the musician-cum-cynic has cultivated ably.
Kids Aflame is a quality album worthy of any experimental artist, especially one whose music falls into the indie genre without tripping over that all-too-familiar stale sound of indie banality.
http://www.myspace.com/armsongs
Written by Sharon Beth Burke.
You can view all of Sharon’s articles here.
