Fast Motions is the debut album for evolving rock pop band The Balconies; a four piece formed by brother and sister Jacqui Neville (singer) and Stephen Neville (Bass) along with guitarist Liam Jaeger and recent addition Steve Molella on drums.

Following on from their EP Kill Count, Fast Motions is a sign that the band are growing, their sound will be sure to open up the ears of new listeners.

The Balconies, originally from Ottawa and now living in the city of Toronto, have toured extensively to promote themselves and build a healthy, loyal fan base.

The opening track on Fast Motions is a catchy pop rock tune called “Boys and Girls”, the guitar riff at the beginning reminds me of Pink’s “So What”, which makes this is an electrifying song with plenty of style on offer.

The drumbeat for “Good and Ugly” generates the flow, which allows Jacqui Neville to run free with her vocals. This track makes leather wearing a must and is a tune that can be played over and over again. “The Slo” offers an apologetic angry riff that would be along the lines of Audioslave if there was much more angst within it.

“Do it in the Dark”, provides a change of melody reminiscent of Lana Del Ray with her dark and melancholy sound, instilling a great rhythm with a superb sound coming from The Balconies recently joined stick-smith Steve Molella.

The tightness within the four members allows them to shine and ensures that Jacqui Neville will become a female vocalist that will be spoken about in the present and the future.

The album offers plenty of passion, the effort displayed in their music creates ferocity by a band with a backbone clearly in place, allowing the vocalist the space to show the listeners how strong her talent is.

This Canadian rock band will be setting stages alight around music venues, with their live performances which have received critical acclaim.

The Balconies pop/rock styling’s mixed with their denim/leather attitude oozes sleaziness, providing an ‘easy on the ear’ listening experience.

There are lulls within this album as it seems at times, to try too hard, but for a debut offering, it’s impressive enough which means that this could be the start of something beautiful, I look forward to future releases.

★★★☆☆

Key Tracks - Boys and Girls, Good and Ugly, Kill Count, The Slo

Review by Mark Wincott