Alexisonfire Albums - The Best Of Post Hardcore Wit

If you're listening to Alexisonfire albums for the first time, you're in for a rare treat. Although musicians and composers in general have a gift for words, few can be as witty and engaging as this Canadian post hardcore scream band. What else can you expect from a group with singles like 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 somewhat 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 group's attractive self-packaging is probably the reason why the members were immediately able to draw attention to themselves. Shortly after they formed, they were able to get a deal from Distort Entertainment and a distribution agreement with EMI. Despite the obvious potential of being able to grab the attention of bigger labels, the group chose to remain largely independent. This didn't seem disadvantageous for the group at all since they have been able to sell their work relying on fan support and touring.

The group followed up on their first success with their second album Watch Out! which was released in 2004. In only three months, the album was already certified gold in Canada. Although the first release was seemingly good enough, this second group brainchild was even better. Pettit attributes this to the band becoming better the more they do what they do. Fans however attribute their improvement to greater emotional release. The taste of initial success prompted the group to work on succeeding projects. Crisis came out in 2008 and was very quickly followed by Old Crows/Young 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.