Flying Machine - Flying Machines
The debut from buzz-band Flying Machines is now upon us. They’ve been featured on television commercials and shows, gained some popularity in the online music world, and now with their ten track self-titled debut, they hope to capture a much wider audience. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, these type of “indie rock/inspired by classic rock” bands are a dime a dozen these days, so it’s always refreshing when a talented band like Flying Machines comes along with a great mix of substance and style, while keeping things fun and energetic.
The album kicks off with “Talk About It”, and it becomes immediately apparent that this band knows how to play their instruments. The prog inspired lead guitar by John Wlaysewski really drives this song. It’s a very brisk and clean guitar passage that works perfect alongside the dance-like rhythm of the song and William George’s faux-British vocals. The first single “On a Whim” is a bouncy number and yes, it is a relatively obvious single. Not to worry though, you’ll be humming along to it in no time.
Thankfully, they start rocking out a little harder with “I Can’t Stop”, even adding a little punk flavor ala The Replacements. Flying Machines then begins to show their arena rock influence with the slow ballad “I Don’t Remember Why”. It starts off slow, driven by a clean guitar, effects and vocals. Eventually it builds to a big and flowing chorus of instruments. The rest of the album really picks up and never really reverts back to this trend, besides showing their abilities to create huge songs. “Hopelessly Alone” begins like an Elton John number. Bouncy, piano driven and with well written personal lyrics. The climax is brilliant as it reminds one of an arena style Queen song.
“Video Games” and “Stay” give the guitar another chance to shine. They are briskly paced with equally groovy and driving rhythms. “Patterns” and closer “Clearing the Boards” again play with the piano and this time bounce and groove more than before. Both include incredibly catchy choruses and show William George’s range and ability to convey what he’s feeling, without feeling forced.
Flying Machines are well on their way to becoming a big band. They have enough buzz surrounding them on the internet without over exploiting them and they certainly have the talent to excel. I hope they continue to grow and progress because the possibilities are endless at this rate.