Killing Joke Album: «Fire Dances»

- Customers rating: (4.6 of 5)
- Title:Fire Dances
- Release date:1990-08-31
- Type:Audio CD
- Label:E.G. Records
- UPC:017046154123
- Average (4.6 of 5)(16 votes)
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- 1The Gathering
- 2Fun and Gamesimg
- 3Rejuvenation
- 4Frenzy
- 5Harlequin
- 6Feast of Blaze
- 7 Song and Danceimg 5:24
- 8 Dominatorimg 4:29
- 9 Let's All Go (To the Fire Dances)img 3:24
- 10Lust Almighty
Why does it seem like this one isn't as important than other KJ stuff. I love the punk dance metal fusions of WHAT'S THIS FOR. Even more so than the first album. This was a return to that form for me. The bonus tracks make it even better. In my opinion they should have been on the original album in first place. And if they wanted to outdo themselves they could have added BIRDS OF A FEATHER and SUN GOES DOWN. How can I put this?....this is like grunge is cheating on metal while punk is cheating on rock and had this baby at a disco.
This was the first Killing Joke record to feature bassist Paul Raven. Whilst not as dischordant as the previous Revelations, Fire Dances has alot of power and intense rhythm. I classify this as the most 'primitive' KJ album, in that the lyrics and music actually sound like they are made by tribal warriors. Take a look at the firedances video, watch the people dancing round the fire! It captures the joy and exuberance of living life at it's simplest. Songs like The Gathering, Song & Dance and Feast of Blaze shine pure simple emotion. They have child-like innocence, and brutality that needs no justification. My favourite song on the album is Rejuvenation. The drums hit like thunder, the words speak of tribes forming and taking over the earth. This albums about being grateful for what youve got, and wil power!
This album is really rather strange compared to other works by Killing Joke. It seemed to me that rather than an idea, they are trying to convey a feeling. They left behind that gloomy-doomy apocalyptic mood, making it more basic, as the lyrics suggest in some places. This doesn't make it any worse, it all appears much more positive, I might even say happy. And even if you have no ear for music you'll find it hard not to be absorbed by the rhythm. All the songs throb with energy. If you want to get something from Killing Joke, this is a good choice.
This is one of the best albums for Killing Joke fans and for anyone who loves music. It's dancy, punky and gothy sounding. Song & Dance, Dominator, Let's All Go (To The Fire Dances)...all very good songs. I play this album very frequently. There's nothing bad about this album except that it's too short. Clocks in at 39 minutes.
Probably the most unique Killing Joke album for a variety of reasons. It is something of a concept album, basking in the theme of William Golding's "Lord Of The Flies" with added revelry. The 'sound' of it is strangely bright (which is even more apparent on cd) which makes me wonder what they did in the studio - it actually shimmers with light and heat. This album has a unique flavor that sets it apart from even their own works, and "Fire Dances" is the perfect title. Many anthemic favorites here, but check out "Frenzy" for its myopic pummelling. (They could really freak people out with this one onstage.) A must for anyone with ears, but too savage for the uninitiated to appreciate.

