Feeling the flow of the Flobots
If you are from Colorado and occasionally listen to the radio or go to concerts, you’ve probably heard about the newly signed Denver group, The Flobots. However, if you reside beyond the four corners of this seemingly simple rectangular state you’re probably now starting to get a taste of their radio hit singles “Handlebars” and “Rise,” which have granted them nationwide exposure. Initially, their redundancy in lyrical content and my selfish disregard for their music “style,” quickly lead me to believe they would be a one-hit-wonder catching a ride on the explosion of new musical talent streaming from the Mile High City. Bands such as The Fray, Tickle Me Pink and Meese have all found unique musical niches with catchy lyrical melodies and tight song compositions. However, over the last few weeks Denver has hosted two huge concerts including the first annual Mile High Music Festival and Channel 93.3’s Big Gig, both of which included the Flobots in their lineups. In retrospect, I missed seeing the Flobots performance at both concerts, but each time I ended up speaking with countless people exuberant about the Flobot’s live performances and additional songs beyond their current releases. Given this overwhelming response, my curiosity got the best of me and I decided to purchase the Flobots new record, Fight With Tools, to see what all the hype was about.
The Flobots performing at Fiddler's Green Amphitheater on Saturday July 26th, Denver CO
To my utter surprise, I found myself intrigued with their tracks “Your Mind,” “Same Thing,” and “Fight With Tools” much more provocative given their unique ability to incorporate trumpets, violins and harmonized vocals with their complex beats and solid rhythms. So much more than the standard drum kits and synthesized tracks of other “hot” rap artists. I also found their underlining political ambitions and inspirations to be a key to their appeal. While I understand that music had long been a format for political expression I tend to dislike many bands who primarily focus on it. But I feel the Flobots have done a great job of not overly preaching their views but encouraging fans to think about our current state of affairs and to act upon their own beliefs.
To check out the Flobots music video “Handlebars” and read more about the band check out their official website at www.theflobots.com.
There is also a second website which contains their online comic book story “Vote for Change” unfolding at www.theflobots.net.
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