Page 91 - ION Indie Magazine JanFeb 2018
P. 91
Alternative rock may be the epitome of crossover genres. Alternative rock in itself is a sub-category of rock. The
music universe, in particularly alternative rock heaven, bleeds across various genres as it intertwines, interacts.
Interestingly enough, this genre is very similar to the human race as all are connected as one.
The ReverbNation Artist of the Month is the New York/New Jersey-based band THE FOXFIRES. They splendidly
thrive amidst the seagaze scene while immersing themselves in folk and indie rock. What exactly is “seagaze”
you ask? Well, first we must explore who are The Foxfires. Your internal and external thirst for answers just may
be quenched.
The Foxfires (per their bio) started in 2013 as a side project between Christian Diana (vocals, guitars) and
Christian Cordero (guitars, keys). Bassist Adam Kahn joined the group next and was followed by drummer
Brandon Vallejo. Their influences come from the likes of The 1975, Wilco, Death Cab for Cutie, and The Flaming
Lips. They flourish mostly in the Northeastern United States and are originally from Nyack, NY. They have shared
the stage with such artists as Michale Graves (former Misfits’ frontman), Kurt Travis (former Dance Gavin Dance
frontman), Rookie of the Year, Pentimento, and even Jennifer Hudson. The group has had some licensing success
with NASCAR, Discovery Channel, Science Channel, Animal Planet and MTV (Bring Your Own Board and Road
Trip Nation). They have played events such as “Pittsburgh Pride,” “Newburgh Illuminated Festival,” “Jersey
Shore Music Festival,” “The NYC Marathon,” and others. They have also played the “Millennium Music
Conference” while being a featured artist on the event’s compilation CD. So, yes, they have the credentials
needed to sustain long-term success.
Now let’s talk about The Foxfires’ sound…although it won’t seem like we are at first. In the early 2000’s, I spent
a year in San Diego County, California. I was reflecting on life and trying to figure out exactly where I may be
headed. A lot of this time (when I wasn’t developing radio shows) was spent on the beaches of Southern
California, Oceanside, in particular. There is a certain comfort gained via watching the breakers roll. The surfers
dot, glide and flail in the surf as throngs of people stroll The Strand or explore the rocky jetty. Soul-searching
brings about many emotions and reflections of past disappointments and haunts. However, the beach is a true
healing center. Despite its massive power, there is a steadiness that emits from the ocean that allows
peacefulness and a realization that somehow, someway, everything will be alright. Perhaps it comes from
watching the seals lounge about or viewing the dolphins and orcas swimming freely. It may be the enjoyment
of the incredible sunsets and the feeling of love and warmth the sun emits. I am not completely sure, except I
know while digging my toes in the sand and peering out at the vastness of water; I was soothed. This, my friends,
is “seagaze”. This is the energy you get from the sound of The Foxfires. You must experience it to live it.
The Foxfires are pure positive energy. It is obvious that this band is going places. You should familiarize yourself
with their music and co-mingle your journey with theirs. They provide a message of hope and love at a time our
planet sorely needs it. They have the talent, experience and have paid their proverbial dues. It is indeed time to
awaken and realize that we all are truly connected. We are one people. We are one planet. Music (no matter
the genre) connects us all and serves as a bridge to bring us together. The Foxfires music message provides
insight, comfort, and an assurance that everything will be alright. As the old saying goes…catch ‘em while you
can. I say capture their vibe in your soul.
Learn more about The Foxfires at these sites:
www.TheFoxfires.com
www.facebook.com/TheFoxfires
http://www.reverbnation.com/TheFoxfires
Check out their video for “Fleeting Foxes” at: https://youtu.be/WvdEJAGNCqI