Written by Annie Barber
Have you been looking for a new indie-pop obsession? Enter Firemill. The duo, consisting of Swede Adrian Modiggård and Minnesotan Harrison Edwards, have drawn on both vintage and contemporary influences, while indulging in diaristic songwriting for their sophomore EP, ‘10K Sunshine’.
The EP kicks off with ‘Time Of My Life’, a clearly Brit Pop inspired track. The vocals are a similar swaggering style to Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher’s, which are balanced by the song’s relaxed and upbeat sound, making for an intriguing and enjoyable start.
Next is ‘Julian 79’, a soft indie track with pop undercurrents. It has an air of early John Mayer, with its pleasing melodies and guitar driven sound. Lines like “I’ll take a drive on my own down on Julian 79 / Because November wants to run through your fingers just one more time” showcase the band’s poetic and vulnerable songwriting style, which gives their work depth and relatability.
Recorded at LA’s Larrabee Studio, the pair enlisted the help of mixing engineer Chris Galland and mastering engineer Zach Pereyra — who have worked with the likes of Alicia Keys, Lady Gaga, and HAIM — as well as producer Hunter Rath, which was clearly a perfect combination.
Things turn a bit darker with ‘Deliverance’, which has a more melancholic sound. The pair explore the uncertainties of love in the song’s honest and poignant lyrics.
‘Hazel Eyes I’ and ‘Hazel Eyes II’ are both laidback and contemplative love songs that bring the EP to a heartwarming and optimistic conclusion.
‘10K Sunshine’ has a sense of timelessness to it due to the wide array of influences that it brings together. However, the production gives it a modern edge, making it a joy to listen to. With this collection of songs, Firemill have proved themselves to be worthy of great success.
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