Slaves - The Fire Down Below (Song Review)
“The Fire Down Below” is the first single off the debut album Through Art We Are All Equals, due out June 24th, from the newest addition to Artery Recordings, Slaves. The band was formed in early 2014 in Sacramento, California and could be described as a modern day supergroup consisting of Jonny Craig (Emarosa, Dance Gavin Dance, Isles & Glaciers), Alex Lyman and Christopher Kim (Hearts & Hands), Tai Wright (Four Letter Lie, D.R.U.G.S.), Colin Vieira (Musical Chairs), and Jason Mays. Craig’s original record label, Rise Records, will not be associated with the new band. The track is not exceptionally heavy, which did disappoint a handful of folks. However, a majority weren’t expecting something over the top. I’m not sure if it was YouTube and their compression or the actual production of the song, but the instruments seemed to overpower Craig’s vocals at some points. Apart from that little technical, whatever you would like to refer to it as, the song is great. Craig delivers as we expected, and having him back with a band has many people stoked for live performances! Fan reception is split down the middle. Some are comparing Slaves to Emarosa and Dance Gavin Dance. As stated earlier some were expecting a heavier sound, but most fans seem to enjoy it. Apart from the usual douchebags bringing up Craig’s past, the comments section was generally civil.
Rating.4/5: Personally I thought the track was great, minus the quality, but that’s YouTube for you. The only thing really holding me back from giving anything higher is the lyrics are lacking slightly, however the rest of the track, from Jonny’s vocals to the entire band is great. I’m personally very happy to see Jonny back with a band and hope that this lasts for quite a while! Be sure to be on the lookout this May for Slaves on their US headliner tour with Hands Like Houses, Miss Fortune, and Alive Like Me. Also be sure to pre-order the album and get your pre-order bundles!
