Backyard Tire Fire - The Places We Lived [Album]

Hyena Records

To me, The Places We Lived certainly captivates the essence of a journey. It is almost like a lifetime of happenings all crammed into one on a fantastic record. Raw, emotional and thorough. Backyard Tire Fire have the ability to seize your feelings and portray them in even the simplest of lyrical form. Somehow, they seem to take the edge off and this is definitely a record to get you through it [whatever it may be].

Released in 2008, the record was destined for success and has become the subject of much critical acclaim in recent months. The Places We Lived, strays away from previous efforts by Backyard Tire Fire, which I suppose, is appropriate; going back to consult their roots before they move on to change the face of music (we hope). Their attitude echoes that of bands such as The Hold Steady, who continue to cross genres. Surely we are anticipating a musical revolution, and with bands such as these who persist with change, the future looks musically sound.

The Places We Lived is a fairly laid-back record, with Southern sounds and subtle soulful tones, branching out into an Americana explosion. Backyard Tire Fire use deliberate discordance and clashes of instruments on ‘Time With You’ which would ordinarily be a big no-no. It sticks out like a sore thumb, but surprisingly, in a good way. That’s what I like about these guys, they’re not afraid in any way, shape or form, to take risks and as a result they produce fantastic records time and time again.

Other offerings on the record continue to excite me. They are all different and just portray the potential and level of good judgement the band have with regards to writing. I find it amazing how a song that is not necessarily the most intricate in terms of lyrical content, can mean so much and be so real. For example; ‘everybody’s depressed and everybody’s down,’ what could be clearer?

They are consistent, yet original and genuinely good musicians. This is clearly displayed on 'Shoulda Shut It,’ which is certainly a contender for best track on the album. I love how they have tweaked every song to best reflect themselves and the contrast in pitch on this song is so fitting to echo the ups and downs of the journey. Something they maybe didn’t even consider, but I guess we all take something personal from a record.

I think it’s almost impossible to hear the violins on ‘Home Today’ and not get chills. It is an exceptional track and Ed Anderson’s vocal is perfect throughout, without a doubt this is the most sophisticated, and delicate of the ten tracks featured, it very simply signifies; coming home. “My objective in the songwriting process is to be honest. I want folks to feel like the tune was written for them and identify with what the song is about,” says Anderson, of the album.

Its reassuring to hear Anderson incite his piano for the majority. The lack of would have resulted in more empty songs and a less salient tone. To be honest, I guess I’m just voicing what Backyard Tire Fire fans have known for years. This band is completely worthy of every recognition they receive and I sincerely hope their enthusiasm for change continues. It’d be a shame to watch this album go unnoticed by the masses, although I’d sacrifice that so long as they kept their magic!