Review: Birds of Tokyo – Universes

Who says that being the underdog is necessarily a bad thing? Apparently, lead vocalist Ian Kenny doesn’t seem to mind this title and neither should you.  While filling the shoes as the frontman of the highly successful alternative/progressive rock band, “Karnivool”, Ian’s side project, Birds of Tokyo, is more a labor of love for the music than being about a marketable band.  While their debut album, “Day One”, is impressive, the listener may feel that the band is somewhat reserved in truly displaying their true talent and sound due to Ian’s status in Karnivool, but with their latest Independent/MGM Distribution release , “Universes”, Birds of Tokyo seem to have found their own natural sound that is pure and true to their own art as musicians. Rounded out by guitarist Adam Spark, bassist  Anthony Jackson, drummer Adam Weston, Birds of Tokyo deliver an album filled with catchy guitar playing and beautiful melodies that create an almost surreal atmosphere that would catch any listener by the ear.

From start to finish this album is relatively flawless with many songs that could easily become singles and songs that could only be viewed as masterpieces.  Their second single, “Broken Bones”, bares a catchy guitar intro with a dramatic crash of sonic sound.  This song  best represents the band’s bigger than life sound and atmospheric fortitude that would blow anyone out of their seat.  This song is also truly remarkable because of  Ian’s vocal ability to morph this piece into a truly epic song.  Another note worthy song, “Wild Eyed Boy”, could easily be considered one of the more mainstream tracks on the album with a catchy breakdown that could make anyone want to pump their fists in the air.  An almost haunting song,  ”Armour For Liars”, showcases the more progressive side of the band.  Ian compliments the song with his crafty lyrical writing and superior vocal work accompanied by Adam’s use of interesting guitar tones and eerie guitar effects that truly makes this a stand out song.  “White Witch”, encompasses more of a blues vibe that is gritty, raw, and downright dirty at times with the help of Adam’s raw guitar sound and Ian’s party anthem lyrics.  Closing the album, “Train Wrecks” and “Medicine”, the listener will hear a more experimental side of the band.  Accompanied with piano and string arrangements, both songs are executed beautifully with Ian’s vocals propelling him into the spotlight as a truly talented vocalist.

In an industry where many bands compete for superiority, Birds of Tokyo have focused more on writing great songs than being a marketable, mainstream band.  “Universes”, displays what so many bands try to do but fall short in achieving.  Birds of Tokyo have created something that is unique and their own that blisters with a greater atmospheric sound.  The four from down under are breaking new ground with their unique style of music and owe much of their success to sticking to their guns and believing in their music.   Being great is honorable but being true and humble to what one does is truly more rewarding and it seems that Birds of Tokyo have found that balance with “Universes”.

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