Carnival

The debut single from Burning Airlines also served as the triumphant return of half of the defunct Jawbox, and on both fronts it met with and surpassed all expectations. Bill Barbot and J. Robbins's return to music is two tracks of melodic and moderately technical indie rock that leaves no question as to the group's songwriting skills. "Carnival" is a full on rock track with thick bass and guitar, a killer chorus, and some astounding drum fills that hold things together before taking the lead in a pounding final coda. "Scissoring" is a bit more laid back, with Robbins' harmonic guitar style leading a shaky rhythm more akin to the more pensive work of Jawbox. Nonetheless, it still develops into a rocking finale, exhibiting the band's strengths at performing on both sides of the spectrum. Robbins continues to be more and more known for his strengths as a producer, and while no match for his highly influential previous band, Burning Airlines is still capable of churning out great songs like these — a fact that deserves to be recognized. ~ Peter J. D'Angelo, Rovi