by Kris Handel
Some bands just sound like they are up for a good time, ready to blow minds with their energy and their joy for playing music, Florry are one of those bands. Led by frontperson Francie Medosch, Florry continue to let loose with a rootsy folk/country blend and some truly incisive and often times devastating lyricism on the Philadelphia based band's second full length, The Holey Bible. They have evolved their musical path from earlier releases and have somewhat recently begun to rely on a seemingly simple formula except there is far more than meets they eye thanks to Medosch's captivating vocals and the ability to search deep within themselves. The vocal melodies are always eye opening, enhanced by the accompaniment of Victoria Rose (Brittle Brian, @), whose vocals share a vulnerability that blends quite well with Medosch.
On a track like the opener, "Drunk and High," the vocal combination of Medosch and Rose is nearly immaculate as guitar solos scream and twang amidst a tale of romance and debauchery that is as engaging as it is catchy. There is a loping quaintness on display here as well as a bit of a ramshackle sensibility, bending and stretching itself out in a manner that flows nicely with the feel of revery and a sense of youth. “Cowgirl Giving" slows things down with a wailing harmonica line and Medosch and Rose's vocals echoing each other while being slightly off-kilter and drenched with a shaky ache. The creaky tune is enhanced by crying pedal steel guitar and wobbly harmonizing as the rhythm section shuffles and bobs along at its own pace lending a tenuous foundation for the tale of emotional support and determination.
"Hot Weather" combines Big Star pop charm with a rollicking more punk "Hot Burrito #2" feel to it via screaming violin and explosive guitar solos around a bobbing bass line. Florry really let loose on a track like this where the listener feels more than a little inebriated and exhausted after a night full of dancing and enjoying life. "From Where You Are" closes out the album with a bit of jaunty swinging country highlighting a jumping violin and bouncy bass supporting the weary and somewhat resigned vocals. Midway through the tempo shifts a bit and the former swingy atmosphere gives way to a darker guitar line and undercurrent as Medosch warbles an ominous "Maybe I'll see you again" kiss-off.
The Holey Bible takes the listener on quite a trip through its sifting moods, its lust for life, and all the complications and roadblocks it puts in ones path. Medosch does her best to work through the rough patches with a welcomed honesty and a joy in engaging with the moments of brightness that pop in along the way. The energy that Florry possess is magnetic and all encompassing, the ability to contrast an invigorating recklessness with a depth of storytelling and compassion is something otherworldly that the release carries in spades. Medosch and the band have made a record that pulls the listener into a world that’s so full of color and appreciation for every experience that it's hard not fall in love with and fully embrace Florry arms wide open.