In the Ministry of Education’s curriculum expectations for grade 4, expectation 3.8 states that students must “identify devices that make use of the properties of light and sound.” Ready grade 4? Introducing, The Balconies. Fast Motions is a hyperactive journey of thunder and consonance. The consequence of which is an album that howls with all the intrepid fire of Hans Solo reaching the speed of light.
There are moments that resonate with 80’s metal or the authentic retro wilderness explored by bands like Rival Sons. But if I didn’t know better, I half expect a “C’mon!” from Zack de la Rocha to erupt from behind the distorted riff on “The Slo.” Jacquie Neville’s voice is the perfect match for this polyphonic stream of Gibson SG. The repeated chorus on “Fast Motions” is a blend of classic hair metal harmony, in a manner that does not appear forced or tawdry, while “Beating Your Heart” shows the fluidity of Neville’s dynamic range. From simple, almost conversational notes, to thrilling shrieks that are perfectly on pitch a moment later, to punchy falsetto when the palm mute comes off; she’s a powerhouse.
The album rages like a wild bus ride on Appalachian switchbacks, and yet it never flies off the rails. There is a tenuous grip on the steering wheel holding it back, to avoid overwhelming the listener. It’s like some wise vocal coach told The Balconies, “just because you can belt it, doesn’t mean you have to.” But thank goodness they can belt it when they choose to. And despite the ways this album makes you a sucker for hair metal, “Do It In The Dark” and “Let Me Go” conclude the album as proof that these are bona fide alt-rockers when they want to be.
These folks don’t just follow a curriculum of lightning and thunder. The Balconies have mastered the course. They invent and redraw the expectations of a musical trio from our capital. And they are way ahead of the bell curve.
