Before Damien Rice hit the big time with his O album, he was lead singer in a band called Juniper. When Rice left to try his luck as a solo artist, Juniper changed their name to Bell X1 and became one of the biggest bands in Ireland.
They're still relatively unknown on this side of the Irish Sea, but their forthcoming album Flock looks set to change all that. If you're expecting sensitive, slightly maudlin balladering a la Rice though, think again. Flame is a stutting, anthemic monster of a record, with a catchy little guitar riff and a singalong chorus.
There are hints of Franz Ferdinand and a nod to Talking Heads, but it's not at all derivative. In fact, it's rather great and it's not even the strongest track from their album. Get ready to welcome one of the year's big breakthrough acts.
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