The Bowery is a hypnotic, down-tempo blend of folk, jazz and electronica.
Formed in Newcastle in 2005, Firekites revolves around the songwriting partnership of Rod Smith and Tim McPhee. Rod’s and Tim’s compositions effortlessly reflect insular warmth, regret and melancholy. The warmth of the acoustic guitar arrangements are enhanced with the violin of Jason Tampake (Josh Pyke/Charge Group) and the jazzy vocals of Jane Tyrrell (The Herd). With these elements, The Bowery reveals its true shape.
Like the introspective acoustic musings of iconic singer/songwriter Nick Drake, a lonely and wild sense of space contrasts the domesticity of songs such as ‘Autumn Story’ or Triple J favourite ‘Same Suburb, Different Park’. It’s the way your mind wanders late at night, set to music.
Since the album’s release in April, Firekites has welcomed Ben Howe to the line-up, who skilfully re-interprets the tracks live with drums and percussion. As a full-time member of The Herd, Jane is committed to a hectic touring schedule and so has passed her Kites torch over to talented Newcastle folk artist, Pegs Adams. Pegs’ complementary vocal quality lends to the colour and vibe of the Kites’ live show.
The Bowery has received an enthusiastic reception from music fans and critics around Australia. The Age, called it “sophisticated instrumental motifs and electronic minutiae”; The Daily Telegraph, “mellifluous and hypnotic”; and more recently Wireless Bollinger picked Firekites as one of the 10 bands to watch in 2008.
Firekites have previously supported overseas artists Laura Marling, Iron & Wine, The Sea and Cake and Bill Callahan (Smog) and local favourites including Something for Kate and Bridezilla. Firekites are currently supporting Josh Pyke and later this month, Holly Throsby. In October, Firekites will stage their first headline tour of Australia. Joining them will be Melbourne’s Crayon Fields. In Adelaide, Firekites will be supporting Sweden’s The Tallest Man On Earth.
The Bowery embodies an effortless balance of heart and head. The sound occupies an idiosyncratic place in the Australian music landscape.
