Cats on Fire - Dealing in Antiques (2010)

I avoid single band compilations as a general rule since they're usually just best of collections of stuff already released by the band. And yet, at least in this case, they're a pretty good way to get into a band. Especially if their music isn't the most readily available. Case in point: Finnish band Cats on Fire. Years ago I found out about them via Eardrums and then kind of forgot I liked them. That sounds awful, I know, but I couldn't find their music anywhere. Now, through to the awesome catalog on Spotify, I've since been able to experience the band in full.

I would recommend Cats on Fire to people who like The Smiths or things that sound like The Smiths that just happen to not be The Smiths. But there's more to them than that. Cats on Fire is lush, melody driven jangle-pop that Scandinavia is known for. Released last year, Dealing In Antiques is a compilation of several songs only available on EPs released in the early 2000's. In fact that songs that appear on their debut album are in their original EP version form here. Packaged up with a cover of White Town's "Your Woman", B-sides, and a never before released track, it's a great introduction to a band whose songs are composed of rich narratives, driving instrumentals, and high no expense spared energy.

It's rare for a band with only two full length albums to get a best of compilation but considering Cats on Fire have been making music together for about a decade, it's not totally surprising. What makes Dealing in Antiques a particularly exciting compilation is that it's not just a collection of played to death tracks batter by radio play. Despite it's rather intense 20 track length, each song is refreshingly diverse but still familiar- no doubt aided by Mattias Bjorkias distinctive, pleasant croon. Somewhat melancholic songs about socialism and small-town living are dressed up with sparse though intelligently well-crafted arrangements and next thing you know, you have powered through all of Dealing in Antiques and only want for more. In this, Cats on Fire have achieved what so few bands do. Each track on the compilation is an utter delight, shining with modest brilliance. Their songs are catchy without sacrificing quality and smart without forgoing relevancy. Cats on Fire have certainly earned this compilation but here's hoping this isn't their magnum opus and their's more to come from the charmingly depressing Finns.

Get a taste of Cats on Fire with their upbeat number "Higher Grounds":