The Watson Twins return for their second full length album, this time without being augmented by cute-as-a-button indie popsicle Jenny Lewis of Rilo Kiley. Luckily, the Twins are still pretty cute without her.Fire Songs meanders through tales of happiness and heartbreak, all with the Watson Twin's distinctive countrified brand. The star of the show is most definitely the Twins' voices, as their gentle, lilting tones set the mood in every track. Never over-powering or too brash, their vocals have a syrupy, warm feel that is a pleasure to listen to for the entire length of the album.Sounding distinctly like Rilo Kiley circa More Adventurous (before they went all LA on us), with clean off-beat guitar, soft drums, and a laid-back blues feel.Fire Songs seems to be a bit of a slow starter with earlier tracks such as ‘Lady Love Me' and ‘Just Like Heaven' sounding rather dull and rather samey. However, the album starts to perk up by ‘Map To Where You Are', a more up-tempo number with a menacing feel to the verses contrasted with a somewhat happier chorus. There's also much more happening in the background - trumpets, shakers, with a breakdown in the middle that shows just how good those vocals are.Their lyrics are perhaps a little obvious at times (Well you've got angel eyes but you've got devil's blood) and seem to stick the black and white rather than exploring anything in between. However, the use of the elements as a theme throughout pins the album together nicely.Rabbit Fur Coat, the album that brought the Twins to the attention of the indie masses, sadly eclipses their latest offering. More variation, more harmonies, and altogether more interesting. Fire Songs just sounds a little lacklustre, which is all the more frustrating when there's evidence showing what the Watson Twins are really capable of. Perhaps they're more comfortable and happier making this kind of wishy-washy country pop, that doesn't particularly offend or excite, or hold interest.The Twins' vocals are perfect but sadly the songs aren't enough to give them the attention they deserve. 40%Links The Watson Twins [myspace]