Jetplanes of Abraham

The Canadian orchestral music collective type band is becoming such an overwhelming indie fad these days, that the appearance of another one may not be super exciting to some people. But seriously, does the idea of more bands like Arcade Fire or Broken Social Scene really sound like a bad thing? The fact is, that every time I get wind of another band from Canada boasting more than 5 members, playing enthusiastic indie rock that employs as many instruments as a band can squeeze onto a single disc, I start to salivate more than just a little bit.

Jetplanes of Abraham are just such a band, hailing from Ottawa, Ontario. Their self titled debut is beyond outstanding. Containing an exciting amount of infectious pop hooks and sporting instruments as wide and varied as violin, xylophone and the usual bass, guitar, keyboards and drums, these guys and gals fit in very well with the aforementioned bands. The vocals will paralyze you, (but in a good way) and there are so many excellent sing along and clap along moments that it is sure to bring out your inner indie rock child. Some of the highlights for me are "Four Part Harmony" which sounds like it's actually boasting more of a billion part harmony; "Take The Cash" which works with the "start slow and build" formula, which for me is always money; and the brilliantly titled "Complications, Fascinations and Quitting Your Job" which is like the delicious stew of the mix, incorporating many different moods and flavors and smooshing it altogether into one epic song.

The buzz on their live show however is rapidly growing. From what I've read, the band is having a ton 'o fun onstage, running from one end of the stage to the other to set up for several instrument changes throughout the course of their set. Sounds like my kind of show! The beauty thing is that attending one of their shows will be significantly kinder on your pocketbook than those other bands ... for now anyways. Sadly, I'm out of town for their next T-dot appearance, but I guarantee that this one is a must see for those who enjoy the live rock 'n roll as much as I do.

Jetplanes of Abraham are playing at Sneaky Dee's on the corner of College and Bathurst on October 6th.

Photo by Bonnie Findlay

Listen: The entire album can be streamed here.
Download: Tunnels/ Terminals mp3
Myspace: Jetplanes Of Abraham
Videos: For Now (live at the National Gallery of Canada) youtube
Not Tonight (live in Ottawa: CD release party) youtube
Purchase: Jetplanes of Abraham at their online store