Artist: Farewell Fighter
Album: The Way We Learn
Release: 2011
Tracks: 7
Finding their roots in Nashville, TN, Farewell Fighter is a four-piece pop-punk band that immediately catches your attention. It's almost impossible to not take a liking to at least one of their songs upon hearing them, with their clear-cut lyrics and catchy instrumental parts. After a few plays of each of their songs, the melody will most likely stick in your head for a while, keeping you hooked. Kenny Fleetwood, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, has a voice with a unique sound that is hard to find, being both quiet and strong at the same time, putting meaning behind every word. Lee Morton and David Jahns back up Fleetwood's voice, blending nicely together with a similar vocal style, while playing lead guitar and bass, respectively. Matthew Hooper pounds out drum beats that are different in each song, but at the same time display a singular style that identifies the person behind the drum set. Together, these four Nashville boys turned out their newest album, The Way We Learn, with enthusiasm and style that can be hard to match.
The Way We Learn begins with "Well Wishing", a song that sets the lyrical mood for the rest of the album. The rhythm guitar takes a major part in this short track, keeping time until the lead guitar takes over near the end of the song. "Growing Pains" opens with a powerful rhythm guitar part, which fades for a moment as the vocals and drums take over, only to make a comeback in the later verse and chorus. A small guitar riff fills up the post-chorus instrumental part. During the bridge instrumental, another guitar riff plays over a strong drumming part. A distorted chord progression kicks off "Never Have I Ever", shortly joined by drums and a guitar riff before the vocals start. This track is a perfect example of harmonizing vocals that deliver the impact of the lyrics in a memorable way. "Love, Lust, Or Losing It?" has a slightly softer sound than most of the other tracks on The Way We Learn, but leaves its own lasting impression with catchy lyrics and a unique beat. The rhythm guitar in this song creates an interesting beat that holds the song together while the drums and vocals hold their own. The bass takes the main stage in "Terminal", setting the pace for the song and giving it an unusual sound that grabs your attention. The vocals have a lighter sound to them with a sound that blends nicely with the instruments. The Way We Learn wraps up with "Where I Belong", an explosive song that stays strong from start to finish. The album's memorable group vocals kick in during the bridge, with the bass providing a solid backbone, returning to the drums and guitar during the last portion of the song.
The Way We Learn definitely has a unique style in terms of how it sounds and the impact that it makes on you. Most of the songs may take a few listens to grow on you, but when they do you won't forget them for some time to come. The second release from Farewell Fighter showcases the potential of this Nashville band in the music industry, especially if they stay true to their album and learn the Farewell Fighter way.
