Falconeers’ debut, Volume One, is a formidable double album that’s as ambitious as it is expansive. Featuring two drummers, Steve Bell and Tom Deinzer, bassist Michael Mietlicki, and the creative powerhouse Nathan Gavacs on keyboards, guitars, and vocals, the band crafts a massive soundscape deeply rooted in the rock anthems of the ’80s and early ’90s. Their arena rock aesthetic is a refreshing homage to an era that seldom graces contemporary playlists with such authenticity. That being said the band is not a one trick pony and is able to jump around genres to some degree while maintaining their original, signature sound.
The album kicks off with “Best Days,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the Falconeers’ expansive sound, evoking a sense of nostalgia that aligns seamlessly with its title. The soaring guitars, powerful drumbeats, and Gavacs’ evocative vocals create a sound that feels as if it could fill an entire stadium. If you’re hooked by the opener, you’re in for a treat, as Volume One consistently delivers across its extensive runtime. Falconeers skillfully navigate various moods and textures throughout the album.
“The Wilderness of Our Hearts” delves into introspective and cathartic territory, offering a poignant emotional journey, while “A Million Parts of a Million Stars” exudes a subtle Bowie-esque vibe that’s both enchanting and distinctive. “
The Price” contains some gorgeous piano playing as well as majestic-sounding pads. I also loved the bass line on this song which is slick and tight. The aesthetics of the song really tug at your heart strings. The vocalist has a bit of a Bruce Springsteen quality, with a painful yearning that brings so much emotion into the song.
“Just Be Happy” is a sentiment that is easy to say but not exactly easy to achieve. There’s a very cool juxtaposition between the synths and guitars on this song. The vocalist sings about overcoming adversity and negative emotions, at least in my interpretation. The song feels like a realization, a reflection on being happy with what you’ve got. It’s a relatable song, capturing a universal sentiment that many, including myself, have felt.
“Wings of Angels” is a wonderful song, capturing the feeling of finding light at the end of the tunnel. The hook also sounds huge and it’s also really catchy.
Clocking in at around an hour and twenty minutes, the album’s length might seem daunting, but the quality of the tracks makes it a rewarding experience. There’s no urge to skip tracks, though you might need a breather to fully absorb all nineteen songs. Other standout tracks like “Ophelia Forgive Me,” “When Heroes Hide,” and “Here’s To The Losers” are excellent starting points for new listeners, each showcasing the band’s versatility and knack for crafting memorable hooks.
Volume One is an album that invites repeated listens, offering new discoveries with each spin. The sheer volume of material ensures that there’s always something fresh to unearth, making it a record that’s bound to remain in rotation for a long time with plenty to explore. Falconeers have delivered a debut that’s both nostalgic and invigorating, a true testament to their potential and artistry. I can’t imagine what their followup will be like but I have a feeling it’s in the works.
Garth Thomas