NEW ALBUM: THE FIXX ~ Every Five Seconds

[Ruby]

THE FIXX ~ Every Five Seconds




An unabashed throwback to 80’s era new wave/art rock but strangely listenable, if a bit too persistently anthemic, in the long run – not enough breathing room. It becomes a bit tiring. I listened because they’ve hovered on the periphery of my musical awareness since Reach the Beach – who doesn’t remember “One Thing Leads to Another”??

Must say, I’m surprised that they are STILL at it 43 years later and sounding good and strong. Have kept an occasional eye on them but never found myself much invested. Cy Curnin is right on pitch – he manages some impressive key changes and has a powerful voice with a decent range which I don’t detect as being helped along by any devices. The band is tight – the original core remains intact, and they obviously gel nicely.

I’d say the production on this is right up there too. I gave it a hearing because I liked the track that popped up in my trawlings – “Supsended in Make Believe”; for me, it’s the pick of the album. I don’t think I’d go out of my way to listen again although one never knows how the mood might strike! It’s all a bit too relentlessly gung-ho is my overall impression and I much prefer Cy’s vocals at less than permanently full tilt which he rarely graces us with! However, to give them their due, they’ve done a fine job, and it’s generally an upbeat release with intelligent lyrics, the obligatory social commentary (not being snide – that’s what musos have always done, and probably always will!), and obviously honed skill – it’s just not entirely my thing. Nice guitarwork by Jamie West-Oram.

The rousing “Closer” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_PIwA7TNow

“Woman of Flesh and Blood” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvYRv2rO9A4

“Suspended in Make Believe” …