Review of ‘Falling Joy’ EP from The Fismits – With ‘Falling Joy‘ I found myself settling into its familiar sound with ease. It has that unmistakable alternative rock feel that takes me back to the late 80s and early 90s. The guitars, the melodies and the overall atmosphere all serve the listener with a hint of nostalgia. Though it feels familiar in all the right ways, it never sounds like it’s trying to copy the past. Instead, Mark Biagio has taken these songs and given them a new lease on life, allowing them to keep their original heart while sounding like they belong, today.
‘Falling Joy‘ will definitely appeal to music listeners globally. The entire EP simply lets the music do the talking. Knowing that these tracks began life decades ago before being revisited with fresh perspective makes the whole release even more interesting. Mark hasn’t just dusted off old songs. He has reshaped them into something that feels relevant, holding onto the spirit they were born with.
When
Opening the EP with ‘When’ was a great choice. It has an uplifting energy, driven by jangly guitars and a melody that stays. There’s a sense of looking forward while reflecting on the past. It’s a balance that works really well. It immediately sets the tone for the rest of the EP and introduces you to its world. It captures the listeners attention enough to say “let’s hear more.”
Independence
Enter ‘Independence‘…. I’ve enjoyed this track since it was released as a single and it still stands out. It leans even more into those 80s alternative influences with its synth textures and infectious groove. It’s one of those songs that’s super catchy and makes you want to turn the volume up for sure. Mark has taken something rooted in another era and given it a fresh personality without losing its charm.
Scars
Scars has always been one of my favourites from this collection. It carries a little more emotional weight. The guitar work is excellent and the song builds so naturally. It’s one of the strongest moments on the EP. You’ll be singing the chorus in no time!
Falling Joy
The title track may be brief, but it serves an important purpose. It’s a quiet, pause to catch your breath before the final song. Sometimes less really is more. The 41 seconds adds another layer to the journey rather than feeling like filler, like some sort of statement. Unusual, and I dig it.
Too Small A Word
Closing with ‘Too Small A Word’ is so fitting. There’s a darker edge to it, a lot more going on, but it’s also incredibly melodic. The atmosphere is fantastic and it rounds off the EP in a way that feels complete, like the closing chapter of a story.
A promise I can make, ‘Falling Joy’ becomes more and more enjoyable with every listen. I found myself picking up little details I hadn’t noticed before, and that’s always a good sign. For anyone who grew up with alternative rock from the late 80s and early 90s, there’s a comforting familiarity here. At the same time, it never feels like it’s simply chasing nostalgia. Mark Biagio has breathed new life into these songs with care, respect and plenty of heart, and the result is an EP that feels timeless rather than tied to any one era. A win in my books!
Stream ‘Falling Joy’ from The Fismits here
