Music
2007 "Wire"
Artwork by Tim Noonan
timnoonan.ca
Wire Links
Wire (2007) You can listen or buy the physical CD online at cdbaby.com
Wire Reviews
EarBuzz.com Review
Kirk Armstrong has channeled the nuances of alternative pop ala XTC and Elvis Costello while paying homage to production paths of the 60's and 70's in the record, "Wire". Armstrong's focus is on songwriting - and the opening track has many attributes of a well-crafted piece of musical writing. "Laura Lie", has a hooky chorus, 2-step Beatle-esque verse drum support, and 3-part major-self-harmony backup. Track 3, "Come On Little Girl", employs harmonies ala Hazy Shade of Winter as Armstrong pays homage to the pop of the past. Armstrong does not focus on one genre as he takes a stab at the dance/euro pop set in "Colours of Despair". Armstrong almost goes reggae in "I've Been Dreaming" as he describes the longing of a long lost love. The clean production is a nice contrast to the rest of the record. The clean strat-based guitar work is subtle and tasty. The final track is a fitting ending to the record as Armstrong slows down the pace a bit and again focuses on writing and pop as he did with the opening track. In between both well done songs, is a 10-tune cream filling of different flavors that fit into the pop/rock/nostalgia categories.
RadioIndy.com Review
“Wire” by Kirk Armstrong is a delightful audio presentation of classic rock/pop songs. Excellent guitar work is evident throughout this entire CD. Kirk’s rich, smooth vocals quickly steal the limelight, pulling listeners into his emotional stories of love and heartbreak. “Come on Little Girl” and “Burning Down” shows off Kirk’s beautiful tone, well-crafted rhymes, and his keen sense for musical hooks and catchy choruses. “Second Hand” boasts a delightful electric intro that envelops listeners into its dreary atmosphere. Perhaps the most successful aspect of this CD is its ability to create a potent emotional atmosphere. What’s more, the production of “Wire” is simply outstanding and pleasing to the ears! Fans of the classic/soft rock bands will jump for joy at the sounds of this amazing record! -Xavier P. for RadioIndy
2008 "Island
Artwork by Tim Noonan
timnoonan.ca
Island Links
Island (2008) You can listen or buy the physical CD online at cdbaby.com
Island Reviews
Earbuzz.com Review
Kirk Armstrong combines the soothing vibe of easy listening with a storytelling-singer/songwriter style. It's mellow folk (or soft rock is some circles). The introductory track; "All My Days" is a marriage of airy strings and guitars with Scott Thomas Band-like vocals. Armstrong fills the lovers lament quota with "The One that Got Away", a song seemingly written for a lost lover. The chorus is melancholy and has a sort of Pink Floyd quality to it. "Smile Like Winter" is an observational ballad, painting images of cool weather as a way to describe his yearning for the love of a particular woman. Armstrong gets a little bluesy on "Life Has Taken It's Toll" (aptly titled for that style). "I Hear the Train Go By" is another poetic number, an internal ballad seemingly telling the story of his own struggles. The overall tonality of Island is strikingly similar to well known Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's many compositions. His vibrato sounds a bit like Dennis Brown. There's a continued sweet/softness to his voice throughout the record and a lightheartedness to this album, as the world Island would suggest. Need to chill? This album may suit you.
MM
RadioIndy.com Review
“Island,” a recently released album by Kirk Armstrong captures the relaxing ambience of soft rock and hints of country. As a one-man show, Armstrong really puts his musical talents to work. His vocals are soft and mellow and are able to glide through the phrasing of each melody. The harmonies are accurate and add flavor to the lead vocals. Solid snare drum hits keep the rhythm moving on “It’s All I Ever Wanted” while the organ plays steady chord progressions. There is a nice incorporation of synth horns on “It Won’t Matter,” which play bouncy hits to this catchy upbeat tune. This album is well-produced, as the sound quality of both the vocals and instruments are clean and show great precision. Kirk Armstrong's “Island” is well worth hearing especially if you’re a fan of musical groups such as the Eagles or Phil Collins.
-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team