Fauves, The - Japanese Engines (Album)
» The Fauves - Republic Bar and Cafe, Tas - May 13, 2005
I’m sad to admit that I’m very late to the party when it comes to The Fauves, but have enjoyed discovering this band. The Melbourne indie-rockers have been making quality music – without the recognition they deserve – for the last twenty years; Japanese Engines is their tenth album, and to this newcomer, it was a perfect introduction.
The album is their first release in three years (after 2008’s When Good Times Go Good), and was recorded in four days, alongside it’s ‘partner’ album, German Engines, due for release in early 2012. According to lead singer Andrew Cox, Japanese Engines is the lighter of the two records. Indeed, upon first listening to the album, it is a solid collection of upbeat, guitar-driven pop-rock; further listens, however, shift focus to the lyrics. Humour is something The Fauves do well, and has been a key ingredient in many of their songs – they are self-deprecating and honest, without trying too hard to be funny.
You’re My Type, the first single off the album - a ditty about internet dating and looking for love later in life - is a prime example of this; ‘You hate child stars, all good so far…Apart from several minor things, which I can forgive, You score six out of ten – highest possible score for a human. You’re my type’.
Not all songs are so upbeat, however; there are more serious themes of heartbreak and damaged relationships; Flag Of Convenience explores infidelity, and album opener Don’t Say When seems to be about the dissolution of a relationship.
Overall, Japanese Engines is an enjoyable album that is sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and always enjoyable to listen to. Standout tracks are You’re My Type, Don’t Say When, and Lost My Page. I look forward to hearing more from this band.
