St. Ignatius's The Eye: Volume LXXIX Number II

This past summer has been one to remember in the alternative/ indie rock scene. Two bands stuck out during the hiatus from school: the Killers and the Secret Machines. Both bands released their debut albums on major record labels this past summer: the Killers with Island Records and the Secret Machines with Reprise. These two emerging bands deserve to be heard.
    Hot Fuss, the debut album by the Killers, is comprised of an interesting blend of musical influences. You can hear the sounds of electronic synthesizers and keyboards reminiscent of Depeche Mode (“Personal Jesus”—a.k.a. “Reach Out Touch Faith”) along with the Flaming Lips mixed in with guitar solos that mimic those of U2. Brandon Flowers’s (lead vocals, synthesizers/keyboards, chief songwriter) smooth and melodic voice, which sounds like a mixture of Stephen Morrissey ( the Smiths), Robert Smith ( the Cure ) , and David Bowie, perfectly complements the band’s instrumentals. An element, which makes this album stand out is its ability to be danced to, as evidenced by “Somebody Told Me” and other songs. On another note, the Killers also have smooth coolness so well evinced by the Strokes. All of these components come together to make one fantastic debut album for the Killers, who hopefully will be making music for a long time to come. Bottom line: this album appeals to those who like U2, Depeche Mode, the Flaming Lips, David Bowie, and the Smiths. RATING: 8.5 / 10.
    A band somewhat different than the Killers are the Secret Machines, who have created a different piece of musical art with their debut album Now Here Is Nowhere. The Secret Machines are Brandon Curtis (bass, keyboard, vocals), Ben Curtis (guitar, vocals), and Josh Garza (drums). These three have created an album that draws on classic influences as Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, the Beatles, and the Who. However, instead of just remaking the music of these bands in a slightly different way, the Secret Machines created the album by looking back at their influences and saying: “what did they do and why did they do it?” In so doing, the Secret Machines have created a truly original album. Guitar riffs with bass, keyboard, vocals drive the music, and percussion layered on to create a magnificent effect. Bottom line: if you like any kind of rock music, especially classic rock, then you will love this band. RATING: 9.5/10.
    While both the Secret Machines and the Killers are on tour, only the Secret Machines will be coming to Cleveland. They will grace our city with their rock on Tuesday, October 5 at 9 P.M. for only $10 at the Beachland Ballroom and Tavern. Unfortunately, it is an 18 or older show only and on a Tuesday night to boot, impossible for most of us to attend. Until next time…KEEP THE MUSIC A L I V E !