Listing the Best Albums of 2009 from A to Z: Bell X1

Bell X1
Blue Lights on the Runway

Released February 20th (UK) and March 3 (US)

“One of Ireland’s greatest bands” – Paste Magazine

The roots of Irish indie-rock band Bell X1, can be traced back to the early nineties with the popular Irish band Juniper. Most of the members of Bell X1 got their start in that band, as did Damien Rice, the band’s former lead vocalist. Despite a number of differences, Rice parted ways with the other members, as both sides moved onto bigger and better things.

Paul Noonan stepped out from behind the drumkit to front Bell X1, although he occasionally still plays drums and percussion. The band also features David Geraghty on lead guitar, banjo and piano, and Dominic Philips on bass. The live incarnation features Tim O’ Donovan (drums), Marc Aubele (guitar, keys) and Rory Doyle (drums).

Bell X1 have released four albums, all which have reached the Top 30 on the Irish charts; the most recent two (Flock, Blue Lights) reached #1. They’ve also released fourteen singles, nine of which landed on the Top 200.

Have a listen to the first single off the new album, “The Great Defector”, the band’s biggest hit to date (#3 on Irish charts).

Bell X1, “The Great Defector”

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Tags: Bell X-1, Best of 2009, Blue Lights on the Runway

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