In the early years of the new millennium, in the wake of the massive success of the White Stripes, countless other indie rock bands popped up comprised of either only two members and/or a brother and sister combo. One of the most notable of these new acts was the Brooklyn, New York, USA-based Fiery Furnaces. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, the band is comprised of sister/brother duo Eleanor Friedberger (b. 2 September 1976, Oak Park, Illinois, USA; vocals/guitar) and Matthew Friedberger (b. 21 October 1972, Oak Park, Illinois, USA; guitar). Honing their act by opening up NYC dates for national acts travelling along the east coast, including Hot Hot Heat and the Kills, the Fiery Furnaces began to create a buzz, eventually signing with Rough Trade Records (distributed by Sanctuary). Late in 2003 the band released their acclaimed debut, Gallowsbird's Bark. The album mixed the duo's basic garage rock style with a rich smattering of folk, blues and music hall. The follow-up Blueberry Boat was a dizzying and frequently confusing collage of musical styles and surreal lyrics, with many of the tracks stretching out well over the five minute mark.
Following the release of the confusingly titled compilation album EP, the duo threw even their most loyal fans by collaborating with their grandmother Olga Sarantos on the frankly unlistenable Rehearsing My Choir (2005). The follow-up Bitter Tea (2006) was intended as a companion piece to its predecessor, but fortunately chose a more tuneful approach that resulted in some of the Friedberger's most accessible music (notably "Benton Harbor Blues", "Police Sweater Blood Vow'). Matthew Friedberger then chose his moment to unleash his own double concept album on the world, although to all intents and purposes the world refused to listen. The Friedbergers made their debut for the Thrill Jockey label with 2007"s Widow City, which included some comparatively hard rocking moments alongside the usual musical twists and turns.
Despite Eleanor and Matthew being the band's main focal point (and receiving the lion's share of credit), the Fiery Furnaces' line-up has been known to expand to include additional members, especially on stage, where their songs take on a life of their own.
