Recently, First Among Equals supported world renowned Zebrahead at a gig in Reading near London in the UK. 'Bring The Walls Down', an album which the band released in 2009 reveals why they were given such a big opportunity, as it is good punky record full of melodic, catchy choruses and good musicianship.
'Bring The Walls Down': The Best Bits
There are many positives about this album. First off, it has the main characteristics of any good punk album. The choruses, as mentioned early are catchy and addictive, much in the same vein as Green Day and Blink-182. However, at the same time, they have a raw, rough and ready edge which the heavily Pennywise influenced 'Authority' proves.
As for the best song on the album, it has to be 'Adrenaline Amphetamine'. This is an absolute gem, and while it is mellower than the other tunes, it is by no means out of place on a punk album. The chorus is something Morrisey of 'the Smiths' fame would be proud of, and the guitar work leading up to it suits the pattern of the song perfectly. This is definitely worth a listen.
'Bring The Walls Down' is by no means a 'one song wonder' though. Once you have listened to 'Destination Unknown', the lyrics will be engrained in your head for a solid week afterwards, as its chorus is frighteningly addictive. Similarly, 'Hey Tammy' has a radio friendly appeal, which will bode well for First Among Equals in the future.
The guitar work in general is good and meshes well with the voice of Howard (the vocalist in the group), whose voice blends with the pace and genre of their music perfectly. The solos of Chris Judd are short, snappy and to the point, not unnecessary ego boosts like some guitarists tend to go for. The one in 'Decca Records' is very Zebrahead-esque, and this shows why they were given a supporting role to such a big group.
James Large's drumming and Mark Penny's bass playing are also top notch. The beat has a chunky, forceful sound that makes the listener take note, and the bass strengthens this.
'Bring The Walls Down': Worst Bits
The album does suffer from a couple of weaker offerings. 'Bird In A Cage' is just a little one-dimensional for this genre of music, and in the same vein, the dark and gloomy closing track 'Few And Far Between' doesn't slot into the album perfectly. 'Adrenaline Amphetamine', the penultimate song would have been a much more appropriate finisher.
The recording of the album is very raw, but in all fairness, it's the band's first album and they aren't on a major record label so this should be expected. In some ways, this arguably makes the album more endearing too. Overly produced, too slick bands like 'My Chemical Romance' - no thanks. Gritty and raw, yet melodic punk rock - yes please!
Is This Album Worth My Hard Earned Cash?
Absolutely - go for it. First Among Equals are on the up for sure, and the album costs a mere £2. Want to hear a very hot prospect in pop-punk, then give this a listen.
Rating: 8.5/10
Where Can 'Bring The Walls Down' Be Bought?
The album, as well as a few preview tracks is available on their Myspace page, and as mentioned earlier, costs just £2.
