Bell XI
Flock
Island/ Universal


Bell X1 began life with Damien Rice as vocalist, so its no surprise that this Irish quartet's sound isn't too far removed from the music that Mr Rice makes. 'Flock', however, sees Bell X1 stretch the diversity of their sound much further than Rice ever has on any of his albums. Paul Noonan does a more than adequate job as vocalist but he doesn't quite captivate as the emotionally charged Rice can.

Enough of the comparisons with Damien Rice; instead, it's not possible to hear the vocals, the urgency and the energy of Bigger Than Me without noticing that Bell X1 must own a Talking Heads record or two. The other obvious (fellow Irish) band to name check is the anthemic sound of The Frames apparent on much of 'Flock', but never more so than Natalie. Reacharound allows a belly of brooding anger to surface from Bell X1, but only for this song, while Flame is a lot funkier than most of 'Flock' but the falsetto and key change are a little cringeworthy. It is songs like the sweet Eve, The Apple Of My Eye that are Bell XI's bread and butter - it is grandiose for sure, but also sentimental.

'Flock' was actually released in late 2005 in Ireland and in 2006 in the UK but this slow burning record has taken till 2008 to get a worldwide release. The release of this, their third record, has led Bell X1 to be stars in Ireland but despite receiving airplay on 'The O.C.' and 'Grey's Anatomy', don't expect their stardom to go worldwide. 'Flock' is good and has glimpses of gold (Rocky Took A Lover) but Bell X1 just haven't done enough to make this a compelling listen.

Scott Berry