Fine China – The Jaws Of Life
Label: Common Wall
Style: Dream Pop, Brit Rock, Alternative
Released: 2005
My Grade: 4.5 stars
AMG: n/a
Sounds like: Starflyer 59, The Smiths, The Psychedelic Furs


Sometimes the reviewer forgets that not everyone will know everything about specific bands, he forgets that people may not be as big of fans to specific artists and that people might not even *gasp* like the same music as he does. He forgets that his review might be the very first review that person has read about the album, and suddenly the entire weight of getting the band out there is laid at his feet; a crushing blow – isn’t it?

I have followed Fine China since I first heard a little demo tape (yes, I said tape) from Tooth & Nail, a collection of snippets from Fine China’s 80s-synth infused debut full length (“When The World Sings”) and the catchy melodies soon had me hooked, an instant fan; the album was an instant success in my apartment and I followed them ever since.

This is one of those bands that deserve a huge following, who cares about Keane, Interpol, The Killers or countless other ‘revival’ bands – this here is the real thing. Rob Withem has a distinct English drawl even though they hail from sunny Arizona (try and figure that one out) and he really knows his lovelorn melodies. Having slowly stripped away their synths for a more organic and dreamy approach, and this album proves the pinnacle of their works.

Every track is a memory, every word is a heartache, the entire album is stripped down to the raw emotional drive of a long denied band; this should be the album that marks their entrance into indie rock stardom, but more then likely it will retain its music-snobbish hold and only a lucky few will really find out what it sounds like to be amazing.
Are you in love with good music, if so you need to run out and buy this perfect example of dreamy pop bliss.

Reviewed by: Samuel Aaron

Official Website: youmakemehatemusic.com