Review of the Album “Florry Live As Hell” suggests it has a distinct scent.
Some musical groups truly come alive on stage. Among them is the Philly-based alternative country band Florry, whose live performances outshine even their exceptional studio recordings. The band’s third album, “Sounds Like…”, released just last year, yearns to be heard in front of a live audience, capturing all the spontaneity, imperfections, and charm that accompany a live show. For those who missed their tour, fear not, as Florry has generously gifted us with a compilation of intimate live performances from various locations like New Hampshire, Ohio, Leeds, and Philadelphia. “Smells Like… Florry Live As Hell” not only pays homage to their latest album but also serves as a celebration of the country-rock genre as a whole.
The captivating drawl of lead singer Francie Medosch is enriched by the raw energy and excitement of a live setting, while John Murray’s skillful guitar riffs shine even brighter amidst the lively atmosphere of a live performance. When Florry’s “Sounds Like…” album graced audiences last May, it was immediately hailed as a future classic, a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll music. Packed with pedal steel, harmonicas, fiddles, and soulful crooning, the album exudes a vibrant sound that inspires listeners to find the beauty in their own lives. Guided by Alex Farrar, the album was already considered near-perfect, leaving fans wondering how the band could possibly improve upon it.
One striking example of Florry’s live prowess is their rendition of “Pretty Eyes Lorraine,” a heartfelt, guitar-driven love ballad evoking the spirit of modern troubadours. Medosch’s emotive vocals, reminiscent of Bob Dylan, take on new life in the impassioned setting of a live performance, while an acoustic version included on the record showcases the song’s quieter, introspective side. The band’s versatility truly shines through in tracks like “Take My Heart,” presented in two distinct versions: a bluesy electric rendition and a stripped-down acoustic performance. Florry’s seamless transition between raucous energy and intimate introspection creates a unique musical experience for their audience.
“Dip Myself In Like an Ice Cream Cone,” the second track on the live album, captures a delightful, carefree energy with Medosch’s honeyed vocals and Murray’s fiery guitar work. The song’s joyful progression embodies the band’s evolution and self-discovery, offering a glimpse into their creative process. With each of the album’s fourteen tracks exuding a clear passion for their craft, including special bonuses only available on cassette, such as two NRBQ covers and a stripped-back rendition of “Drunk and High,” Florry demonstrates their commitment to authenticity and musical artistry.
The live album’s peak moment arrives with “First it was a movie, then it was a book,” an epic journey spanning almost eight minutes that showcases the band’s technical prowess and cohesive performance. The song’s intricate instrumentation, masterful execution, and explosive energy create a riveting live experience that borders on the miraculous. Moving through peaks and valleys, the music allows each band member to shine individually while blending seamlessly together to create a sonically rich and vibrant atmosphere. As the music builds to a crescendo, listeners are swept away on a musical journey that feels almost transcendental, sparking a desire to embrace life fully and immerse oneself in the band’s evocative sound. Florry’s music is like a burst of emotions, a never-ending summer day, or a memorable night at a gritty bar—it encapsulates a sense of limitless freedom and youthful exuberance that captivates audiences beyond just their music.