A new favorite!
I’d stayed away from The Fiery Furnaces because of the mixed reviews and “challenging” label that people tend to give them. But my music taste seems to have been veering a little to the strange side lately, so I thought I’d give Bluebuerry Boat, their 2004 rock opera, a try. On first listen, the theatricality wore me out a little, but before long, I had completely gotten on the boat. I bought the album two days ago, and I have listened to nothing else since. I kind of can’t stop.
Five of the 13 tracks are over seven minutes long, but among those are some of my favorites, composed of mini songs—some jazzy, some classic rock—mixed with sung dialog. Unusual rhymes and nonsense phrases abound; Lewis Carroll would probably approve. The album as a whole doesn’t have a story per se, but it’s about a lot of things, including seafaring, teleconferencing, and fratricide. But ultimately, it’s about the most fun with music and words that I’ve experienced in a long time.
Not for everyone, but probably for more people than it gets credit for.
Isn’t it fabulous? Chief Inspector Blancheflower is a favourite of mine – it will *always* remind me of a fabulous summer spent picnicking! I was lucky enough to see them supporting Hot Hot Heat back in 2003, one of the best shows that I’ve ever been to. You should also try and listen to ‘Gallowsbird’s Bark’ – it’s not as accessible but has some fantastic tracks! xx
“Chief Inspector Blancheflower” is also one of my favorites from this album, along with “Quay Cur.” And Gallowsbird’s Bark is exactly what I was planning to get next—thanks for the recommendation!