Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

awesome band, awesome album (2010-03-05) : 5/5
I heard "1901" for the first time in 2009 on WXPN (great public radio station). Phoenix has since quickly become one of my favourite bands, and though I have enjoyed all their albums, this one is by far the best. I have listened to it dozens of times all the way through and it doesn't get boring. No duds on this one. The album is well thought out, with a consistent, building sound, yet there are definitely identifiable singles (notable 1901 and Lisztomania). I am glad that this album is getting Phoenix some deserved attention, but I hope in future projects they stick to their under the radar/indie roots.
Phoenix breaks through (2010-03-05) : 4/5
Formed in 1995 in Paris, France, it took Phoenix almost 15 years to find their breakout hit with Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, which is by far their best and most consistent record. Confident but not imposing, this album gives you 10 pleasant, accessible songs that are immediately enjoyable. The two opening tracks "Lisztomania" and "1901" glisten in pop-glory, but there are other gems to be found in "Love Like a Sunset, Pt. 1" and "Lasso". Hopefully, Phoneix can keep up the effort on their next release.
Fresh Rock on Amadeeus (2010-02-18) : 4/5
This CD is a fresh, flashy and upbeat look at an group I had not sampled before but am glad I took a chance on. It is refreshing to be rewarded with something that sounds different when you get brave and take a chance on some new music. I've been disappointed so many times, I tend to buy the same old groups and artists because I know I'll like what I get, but things can get pretty stale that way.
One of the best CD's purchased (2010-02-16) : 5/5
I bought this CD because I loved the song 1901 on the commerical. But, I was blown away at the entire CD. My son loves listening to the entire CD over and over, as do I. I was only expecting to listen and enjoy 1901, but can't seem to take the CD off repeat while in the car. Absolutely fantastic. Great upbeat feeling and dance songs.
Born-Again New Wave. (2010-02-12) : 5/5
I'm not sure where I first got notice of Phoenix and their Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix" CD. I'd guess it was an Amazon recommendation since it fits my musical tastes rather well. In any case, I bought. I never listen to samples. I tend to buy from reviews so listening to every new CD comes as a surprise and the Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix CD is no exception. I was surprised, and pleased.br /br /My first impression was that the CD reminded me of the "New Wave" era of the late 70s and early 80s. That's fine with me as I loved New Wave music. It was simple, basic and highly danceable, as is the Phoenix album. As I listened through the album I felt it was very reminiscent of The Cars in many different ways. Again, that's OK, I greatly enjoyed Cars music. The vocals sounded different, but the background and arrangements definitely reminded me of The Cars, plus any number of other New Wave bands. The music is melodic, simple, highly repetitious and danceable, all favorable characteristics in my opinion. I can listen and listen without getting tired.br /br /This is an excellent album. Real fine! It sounds old and new at the same time. Born-Again New Wave, I'd call it. If you like New Wave, you should enjoy it very much.br /br /Gary Peterson