Foxy Shazam have pulled off a rare feat with the release of Animality Opera. Sure, plenty of bands can and have released great albums, but few have come up with an album title that so accurately describes the music confined within. The Cincinnati quintet roar out of the speakers with a raw, animal-like passion combined with theatrical elements held together by Eric Nally’s high-pitched and near opera-range voice.
Foxy Shazam sound like they haven’t missed a beat with their ninth studio album, though I should admit that I somehow lost track of them after The Church of Rock and Roll. The songs all have stadium-anthem vibes with their sing-along choruses and fist-pump feel. They are over the top, but in the best way possible. The easy comparison is Queen, but they add a modern twist, making them fit with underground and mainstream styles from the ’70s to today.
Band members Sky White (piano), Teddy Aitkins (drums), Alex Nauth (horns), Devin Williams (guitar), Existential Youth (bass), and Nally are all at peak skill level. White’s piano is a little more subtle this time around, adding an atmospheric quality. Nauth’s horns are superb and bring feelings of chaos and serenity depending on the song. The fast syncopation in album opener “Rhumbartorium,” is a prime example of Aitkins’ contributions. Williams and Existential Youth are solid as anything. They do their thing and let the songs breathe, while all having their moments. Nally’s vocals tie everything together splendidly. His voice carries an incredible amount of energy to go along with his mind-blowing range.
An interesting element to Animality Opera are the spoken word portions provided by Shamon Cassette. He is used sparingly but in a decent amount of songs. His words flow with the poetic feel of the music behind him. “Treacherous Pursuit” is his shining moment. He builds up for about half the song before the piano and vocals take over. The song is the most laid-back on the album, but there is a lot of beautiful tension laced throughout the three minutes.
Foxy Shazam are one of the best rock ‘n’ roll bands going. Animality Opera proves that with instant recognizability and worthy of many repeats. New aspects will pop up with each new listen. This release is nothing short of mind-blowing.
