It can be a bit of a funny experience to get your hands on Alexisonfire merch and albums for the very first time. Naturally, musically inclined people are quite adept in crafting well worded compositions. This Canadian group however is a rare gem because of its wit. This is pretty obvious when you consider that the band has works entitled Pulmonary Archery and Boiled Frogs.
The group’s uniquely funny witticisms were already a part of their identity early on. They picked the group’s name from Alexis Fire, a pornographic performer who is known as the sole lactating contortionist stripper in town. Fire originally sought legal action against the group’s move to use her name but no conflict ensued because the name was not copyrighted.
The first group line up was formed in 2001 when then founding members merged after their respective bands had broken up. On vocals is George Pettit from Condemning Salemn. Sharing vocals duty as well as guitar and piano is Dallas Green from Helicon Blue. Also on vocals and guitar is Wade MacNeil from Plan 9. Bassist Chris Steele came from the same defunct band as MacNeil. The group tapped Jesse Ingelevics as drummer to complete the group.
The group’s wit became apparent again in their first 2002 EP Math Sheet Demos. They reportedly settled on this name because the disc was covered in math sheets. The debut Alexisonfire album was even funnier featuring a pair of Catholic school girls in the middle of a knife fight. Appropriately enough, this is the image the group thinks best describes their music.
The fact that the band members presented themselves in such an unusual and funny way is one good reason for the increased attention that they got. They were able to soon grab a deal with Distort Entertainment and EMI. Fans cite that with the group’s unique attitude they could easily bag deals with bigger labels. The members have maintained though that they prefer to stay independent. This has not proven to be a stumbling block since album marketing has been successful because of tour promotions and word of mouth.
The band moved on closer to more success with their second release, Watch Out! which started selling in 2004. In as short as three months, the musical work garnered a gold status in Canadian soil. It was clear from the very start that this second work was even more of a bang than its predecessor. Band member Pettit says this is most likely because bands do get better the longer they play. Some fans add that the improved sound is most likely the result of a better show of emotions. This successful second album was followed by Crisis in 2008 and then by Old Crows/Cardinals in 2009.
The only sour mark on the band’s history seems to have been the departure of Ingelevics in 2005. He was an original member but clashed with the other members. Currently on the drummer’s seat is Jordan Hastings.
It’s obvious that all of the Alexisonfire albums revolve on scream music. Even those who don’t find this kind of music appealing however will definitely warm up to this group’s acerbic sense of humor. If you want some caustic fun, listen to this group. You might just end up becoming a fan and copying their music fashion.