England in 1819 – “Fireball Electric Tomorrow”

“Overall, ‘Fireball Electric Tomorrow’ is another strong showing from a unique and powerful showing that deserves at least one play through from both those familiar with the duo and from those who are unfamiliar with them.” – Peterson Worrell

Peterson Worrell

7.5
out of 10

England in 1819
Fireball Electric Tomorrow
September 24th, 2013
Self Released

Originally formed in Baton Rouge, LA, the fraternal duo that makes up England In 1819 have been weaving together their heavy, ambient style of chamber-pop and indie rock fusion since 2007. Brothers Andrew and Dan Calloway both have an extensive musical background, each touting a formal education in musical arts as well as the benefit of gaining experience from their father, Liam Calloway, who is a well respected musician in the Athens, GA music scene in his own right. With their third album release, Fireball Electric Tomorrow, the band takes a much different direction than with their previous two albums. What was once a nine member band comprised of musicians ranging from an opera vocalist to an oboe player, has been pared down to just the two brothers supported by the an array of electronic instruments. What has not changed is the band’s sweeping, grand sound.

Fireball Electric Tomorrow begins in a very subdued manner. The first few tracks exhibit a restrained power that is not uncommon for the band. “Himmel” and “Our Own God” present the lyrical power of Andrew’s voice in combination with the soaring synth sounds and underlying bass hits. By the time “Pine” begins, the duo shows another side of their prowess. This time, they focus on using Andrew’s vocals in more of an instrumental manner rather than a method of conveying lyrics. This vocal technique combined with the washed out, oscillating feel of the track showcase a style that will become a theme throughout the album, as shown through other standout tracks such as “Vines” and “Drift”. One of my personal favorites on the album, “Lights”, displays a give and take style of delivery in that it is at times very subtle and then switches to monumental crescendos. Another standout track on the album, “Daniel”, delivers Andrew’s signature operatic vocals over a blend of more pop-like synth combined with keys and Dan’s French horn to a dynamic effect.

Overall, Fireball Electric Tomorrow is another strong showing from a unique and powerful showing that deserves at least one play through from both those familiar with the duo and from those who are unfamiliar with them. Admittedly, while the album is very good, it may not be an immediate draw to all at first. It took a couple of listens for me to grow accustomed to the unusual blend of operatic vocals over blends of synth cords and French horn. Once I’d given the album a chance and opened myself up to it a bit, I found that the brothers delivered a kind of serene complexity that comes across as very delicate at times and appropriately overwhelming at others. Be sure to give the brothers’ new album a listen to when it debuts on September 24th and check them out as they tour the Southeast in support of their new album throughout September, October, and November. Georgia dates include Savannah, Athens, Macon, and Atlanta beginning in October. In the meantime, check out their BandCamp page to become more familiar with their work.

England in 1819 – “Himmel”

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