Foxy Shazam - The Flamingo Trigger (320)

Back in 2008, a friend of mine had become obsessed with a then relatively unknown band called Foxy Shazam. Despite my initial reluctance to give a band with such a name a chance, I ultimately decided to download The Flamingo Trigger, their debut album. After listening to it a few times, I concluded that it was a choice I certainly didn't regret. In fact, Foxy Shazam was my first foray into the genre that is post-hardcore, and after hearing many different bands from all sorts of places, I still believe that Foxy Shazam is one of the more unique acts that I've had the joy of listening to. Beyond all of the eccentric madness, the humorous lyrics, the unconventional keyboard solos, and general over-the-topness, there is a group of five boys (now six) full of unrelenting wit and talent.

The Flamingo Trigger is twelve songs of pure entertainment. Many of the songs break down into unintelligible, incoherent screaming at some point or another; however, this works for what the band seemed to be going for at the time, which seems to be desiring to provide the listener a wonderful ride on a musical roller coaster. Many songs have a theatrical, almost circus-like nature to them; a circus in the realm of insanity. Eric Sean Nally is a beast of a frontman, and makes a perfect "ringmaster" for this show of grandeur. One highlight of the album is "Seagulls Over Rhinosuarus Bay," parts I & II. Both parts showcase Sky Vaughn White's impressive proficiency as a pianoman, especially part two, which is the first instrumental track featured. Another highlight is "Brains Of Vegas," a song with an spectacular, brutal ending that I did not expect at all. The most bizarre song of all, "------------," is an interlude that takes a classical approach: one man, one piano, and a simple song structure. All in all, the album seems to be all over the place, and that is not a bad thing in the slightest.

Give them an honest try.