After releasing their self-titled debut last year and joining mtvU’s Freshmen Five this past spring, Friendly Fires refused to take a break. Back with a new single, the group from St. Albans is sharp as ever.
Upon first listen I noticed right off that “Kiss To Tell” contains the classic stop-pause-start maneuver that runs throughout so many of the Friendly Fires tracks. However, even though we should expect it at this point, it remains unexpected and continues to capture one’s interest. The beat seems to have mellowed out a bit when compared to previous songs, such as “Skeleton Boy,” but there is less anguish and pleading in the new single than the boys’ self-titled debut. This seems to be a song of joy and reverence for life, rather than a desperate cry to former lovers. I remain undecided on whether or not this is the sign of a band’s continued growth. I think we should wait to hear the sophomore album in its entirety before making that call.
The video is not as eye-catching or stimulating as the others, however, there is a strong difference that should be noted. Now we see Ed MacFarlane being firmly placed front and center. He, and his unique dance moves, are truly the spotlight of “Kiss To Tell” and it’s almost as if we’re being told he is growing into his role as lead singer and frontman. Macfarlane no longer shyly turns his eyes downwards, as in “Paris.” Here, he looks at you head-on and commands your attention. Preparation for super stardom perhaps?
Above all, the group remains exquisitely sensitive, which accounts for their legions of female fans. Myself included there. You always listen with the romantic sense that they are madly in love and “Kiss To Tell” is no exception.
