First Among Equals: Goodbye Eddie the Gent
A Review of the First Album from the Cardiff Rockers
'Goodbye Eddie the Gent' is the first (and possibly last) album made by the Welsh band First Among Equals. Much has been said about the high energy three piece, and in this album they show their true abilities.
'Goodbye Eddie The Gent' Sets a Relentless Pace
The album lasts around forty minutes, and during the twelve songs, the three piece show that they have a good range of styles. Songs like 'Brides in the Bath' wouldn't sound out of place at a heavy metal concert, while there are also tunes such as 'Captain Jack' which are still rocky, but more melodic and ballad like.
The guitar work on this album is very good. Despite having only the one guitarist, you wouldn't wish for any more as Kilby (the guitarist) dominates the speakers with his heavy, distorted, snarling guitar work, with some decent solos thrown in for good measure.
The lyrics of the songs aren't too bad either. They claim to stay away from 'hormonal whining' and 'indier than thou' lyrics, and they manage to back up their words with catchy songs such as 'Cancel the Weekend' and fiery songs such as 'Time Gentlemen Please'.
There is only one cover on the album. This is of 'Chinese Rock' by the Ramones, and while it's not an outstanding rendition of the classic, it is by no means bad.
The album is paced very well. It places songs in the correct places, meaning all of them fit in well with the album. While this seems very basic, some bands get this wrong, and it is vital that they don't.
What Is The Best Song on the Record?
There are no standout tracks on the album, but it is consistently good. Also, it would depend more on the personal taste of the listener. However, if one song was to be pinpointed as the one to listen to to see what First Among Equals were about, it would be 'Where We're Going We Don't Need Roads' as this displays a little bit of everything that the band has to offer.
To be honest though, any listener could probably listen to any track on this CD and not be disappointed with the quality of it.
The album is recorded well too. While it stays raw, it is as slick as any album on a big record label, which adds to the great sound this band has.
What Are the Drawbacks of 'Goodbye Eddie the Gent'?
It's hard to find true weaknesses with it, but maybe it's lack of an outstanding song does count against it. It doesn't possess that one killer song which would make the album truly amazing.
However, the majority of bands don't get it spot on at the first attempt, and this is a very respectable effort from the three men from Aberystwyth. A very solid start.
Rating: 8.0/10
'Goodbye Eddie the Gent' by First Among Equals is available at iTunes and CDBaby.
What do you think about this article?
Latest Articles