SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: ALEXISONFIRE – HOUSE OF STROMBO (LIVE IN TORONTO, ON 2019)

ALEXISONFIRE
HOUSE OF STROMBO (LIVE IN TORONTO, ON 2019)
DINE ALONE RECORDS

Hot off the release of their most recent studio EP, Copies of Old Masters Vol. 1, Alexisonfire has returned, just weeks later, with their newest release. As a part of Record Store Day, the band has returned with their newest live album, House of Strombo (LIVE in Toronto, ON 2019). Available via a range of vinyl options, digitally, and, curiously, on VHS, House of Strombo (LIVE in Toronto, ON 2019) captures the band’s set from The House of Strombo on February 19th, 2019, the same night the band had released “Familiar Drugs,” their first original single in over a decade.

Opening with “Familiar Drugs,” Alexisonfire kick off their living room performance with an absolute sonic bombardment of relentless proportions. The band’s powerful comeback single remains exhilarating, especially live, as guttural screams and lush melodies collide, emphasising all the signature elements that make Alexisonfire influential. Followed by “Pulmonary Archery,” the band doubles down on these elements, making for a stellar performance and a master class in modern hardcore.

As the album continues, Alexisonfire blast through some of their most essential tracks. From the signature beat of “This Could Be Anywhere in the World” to the anthemic “Young Cardinals,” the band also takes a chance on the fan favourite deep cut, “Dogs Blood.” Closing out the set with “Happiness by the Kilowatt,” which included a chorus of Prince’s “When Doves Cry,” sung by Dallas Green and Wade MacNeil, Alexisonfire marked their return with a stellar performance that championed their new material alongside classics, both performed with equal levels of intensity. Without a doubt, Alexisonfire’s set at The House of Strombo was a legendary performance.

All in all, House of Strombo (LIVE in Toronto, ON 2019) is a fantastic live release from Alexisonfire that captures the special feel of the original House of Strombo performance through its unique Record Store Day release. With the intimacy of a hardcore house show, the band sounds as ferocious as ever. Most importantly, however, House of Strombo (LIVE in Toronto, ON 2019) stands as a testament to the power behind Alexisonfire, capturing the band on the eve of their long-awaited comeback. While the band has pressed forward since then at an impressive clip, House of Strombo (LIVE in Toronto, ON 2019) marks a landmark moment that remains vital for their enduring relevance and success of Alexisonfire.

Artist Links