5 Minute Walk--SaraBellum's parent label--has introduced us to some of the most enjoyable modern rock bands that we've heard in recent years. Artists like Seven Day Jesus, Black Eyed Sceva (now Model Engine), Dime Store Prophets, Dryve and Five Iron Frenzy have come from the 5MW/SaraBellum stable. Now, for the first time, the label has gone off shore--to the United Kingdom--to sign a band, and it has landed a winner. The Electrics, who hail from Scotland and Ireland, have consistently been named one of the most popular live acts in Europe for the past seven years. During that time, the group has released three full-length discs and one EP, but none of its material has received wide distribution in America. Like fellow U.K. band Iona, The Electrics' exposure in the United States has been limited mostly to festival appearances and showcases--probably fewer than 12 gigs in the past four years. But with bands like The Wallflowers and Counting Crows bringing roots-flavored music back to the airwaves, the time seems right for The Electrics' Celtic-rock stew to find favor with American audiences. Three members of the group--leader/bassist Sammy Horner, guitarist Paul Baird and drummer Davie McCarthur--have been together for more than seven years, giving The Electrics a tight sound sometimes missing from younger bands. Mandolin, fiddle, whistle, pipes and accordion--all staples of Celtic music--add a flavor to the band's songs that is simultaneously melancholy and festive. Titles like "Back of Your Head," "Disciples of Disaster," "Two Buns" and "Pour Me A Pint" prompt the listener to delve into Horner's thoughtful lyrics. And that adds up to this--The Electrics are a terrific band. All that's missing is an appreciative audience, so get on board.
Other coverage for this album
The Lighthouse March 1998Reviewed by Roger AppelinskiI first heard of The Electrics on Julie Miller's "Back Of Your Head." They were her band on that song, and I really liked the Celtic folk flavor. So, it was interesting to see that same song kick off The Electrics, which is (as far as I know) their debut release here in the U.S. The Electrics remind me a little bit of The Crossing in some respects: the instrumentation, the backing vocals, and the…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Jeremy ChoiWith only a handful of notable bands in the Christian market creating half-decent Celtic-influenced folk and rock music, the Electrics have set themselves apart as one of the most authentic and intense bands of this genre. Garnering a very loyal following with their previous efforts, Visions and Dreams (1991), Big Silent World (1993) and The Whole Shebang (1995), The Electrics have become a…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by James StewartHaving heard of The Electrics for years, and following them for a couple of those, it's been a strange experience to pick up the recent buzz about them from the USA. This album is something of a 'best of...' with all tracks re-recorded under the watchful eye of Masaki Liu (Dime Store Prophets). Many favourites are here and are definitely sounding better than ever but I was a bit disappointed that…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Linda T. StonehockerPipes, penny whistles, pubs, and pints. This is manly music created and played by manly men from Scotland and Ireland true to their roots, who know their way around a public house equally as well as a church. The "whole shebang" adds up to a rollickin' good time, a refreshing change from standard CCM cliched rock. 5 tocksThe Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Josh SpencerAll-righty then! Woo-hoo! The Electrics are here, all the way from Scotland, with their heavily ethnic brand of rock ("pub rock!"). Ethnic in the Scottish sense--the traditional guitars, bass and drums are joined by pipes, mandolin, fiddle, keyboards, whistles, and an accordion! The accordion even adds a slight Cajun feel to the music, which is, I don't know, weird. Sammy Horner's voice sometimes…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Shari LloydThe British Isles is sending a lot of great music across the Atlantic lately. From Scotland, the newest group is the Electrics, a wonderful blend of rock and Irish folk music. You'll find the usual guitars, drums, and keyboards plus Uilleann pipes, an accordion, a fiddle, a whistle and a mandolin. The Celtic influence is everywhere and is sure to have you tapping your toe. Highlights are "The…Similar sounding releases
1997Rob FrazierThe Things I Say
2001Charlie RobisonStep Right Up
1997Phil & John & The WoodthievesProvidence
2005Richie FurayI Am Sure
1996Eden BurningMirth & Matter
2003Pat GreenWave on Wave
