To enjoy The Fiery Furnaces, one must enjoy music without reservation or pretense. Seems simple enough, but what rings out from the capable hands and mouths of Chicago's own sibling combo Matt and Eleanor Friedberger defines modern music by defying convention. Over their bountiful eight year career, they have presented eight albums and a smattering of EP's and singles with no common sound or theme connecting them except the joys of life itself. Over 2011, the Friedbergers have gone their separate ways to work on their own concepts while keep The Fiery Furnaces intact for another day.
Matt Friedberger's latest work centers around Solos, an eight album series available on Fiery Furnaces label Thrill Jockey where each recording centers on Matt using only one instrument and his voice. The first LP Naploeonette utilizing piano was released in January and Meet Me in Miramas showcasing the guitar hit the streets in March. Next up for release this week is Old Regimes where the only instrument is a century-old harp. Next up in the series are drums, organ and the double bass with the last two albums are available as a bonus to finish the series featuring guest artists. Of course, the Solos series is already sold out, but individual albums are available here.
Eleanor Friedberger's new album Last Summer is due out on Merge Records July 12 with new single "My Mistakes" already available as a teaser. A rolling acoustic guitar and piano rhythm sparkles on this more pop-centered expression with Eleanor's sturdy vocals and, despite the precursor of rock music's past mistakes, a finishing saxophone solo.
The Friedbergers have come back together as The Fiery Furnaces for a stripped down mini tour without a backing rhythm section. They will be in Chicago May 10 and 11 at Schuba's. As of post time, tickets are still available here.
Matthew Friedberger - Shirley (Download)
Matthew Friedberger - Meet Me in Miramas (Download)
Eleanor Friedberger - My Mistakes (Download)
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