 List Price: $10.98
Lowest Price: $7.69 
Album Description: Formed as a cohesive alternative organism in 2005, the FLOBOTS `good-fight' mythology can be traced via Denver's underground vines and creative community of the late `90s when various members enlivened each others' gigs and creative events, setting the charge that would eventually power up the band's contagious and rollicking rock/rap pedigree. Their rousing live show, seasoned by classically trained viola player Mackenzie Robert's innovative playing, sparked an impressive undertow of across-the-board support (including both coasts and off-the-grid territories such as Nebraska and Utah) as the group honed its glowing activist edge with a refreshingly positive message and bristling musicianship. The prescient "Handlebars," currently holding down a coveted `Top request' slot at several key radio stations as well as being the Most Added at Alternative Radio, has placed FLOBOTS among the most buzzed-about newcomers in rock and rap circles. "'Handlebars' was written in the same way the group kind of blossomed," says Jonny 5. "I had a friend a few years ago who asked me if I ever tried to ride my bike with no handlebars. I hadn't, so I tried it. Got to thinking about all the other things I could do - we could do. The song came so fast to me I actually called my mom's answering machine to record the lyrics and make sure I got it all down. Of course it's also about how even our best intentions are laden with some sort of opposite. We like to think that FLOBOTS are about directing that positive energy into real change." Customer Reviews: Rating: 
Date: 2008-07-08
terrible
This should not be considered hip hop. The cd isn't even worth your time, buy brother ali, or atmosphere if you want something worth listening to. Its garbage wish i would I could return it. I love political music but I like the kind with passion and heart these guys sound like your Christian youth group went democrat. Rating: 
Date: 2008-07-05
Excellent music, outstanding message
While stationed in Afghanistan, one of my buddies suggested this group, so I ordered their CD, and must say I was impressed. Their music and message has introduced me to a new world progressive rap/rock music. I used to like Rage Against the Machine, but they sold out their message. Their message is right on and accurate. There will be some that will disagree and consider them some liberal trash, and they are entitled to their opinions. Flobots hits nearly every song with great beats and excellent lyrics. I can't wait until their next album arrives! Rating:
Date: 2008-07-03
Almost purchased
I enjoy the Handlebars song that has been playing on the radio; however, just before I purchased it, I decided to check out the meaning of the song. I did suspect they were bashing the US, but wanted to make sure.
Long story short, I decided not to purchase the song, or any other from this group. I enjoy the music, but could not disagree more with their political views. Even if I disagree with someone's political views, I could still buy their albums, watch their movies, etc.; however, if that person is so militant about their views and/or they take my support of their talent to mean support of their views, I choose not to give them that impression.
Too bad. Rating: 
Date: 2008-06-24
Brilliant debut
Flobots fall between The Roots and Rage Against the Machine. Their lyrics are thoughtful, provoking and angry but maintain something Rage didn't, hope. And The Roots are fine musicians - especially live, but Fight With Tools goes to the next level. For the first time that I can remember, the MUSIC is as impressive as any of the rhymes. There are no samples to be found and if there was an instrumental version of this available, I wouldn't feel cheated purchasing it. If there is one knock on this release, its the use of voiceovers. The lyrics are strong enough in each of the songs that the voiceovers, while well done and very much in line with the rest of the content sometimes feel forced. I'm looking forward to a tour that will bring them my way soon.
SIDE NOTE - YOU ARE MISSING A GREAT CD IF YOU DOWNLOAD HANDLEBARS AND NOT THE REST - IT IS WORTH THE EXTRA $8.00 - THE SONGS ARE GREAT AND THIS IS A NEW ARTIST WORTH SUPPORTING. Rating:
Date: 2008-06-24
Great Lyrics and unique sound
I loved this album on first listen and every time I play it I find more to love. They lyrics are so much better than 99% of the rap hip-hip stuff out there.
They really have something to say about politics and the world we live in. Highlights for me are Same Thing, Stand Up and Handlebars. The instrumentation stands out as well - real musicianship on the electric violin and trumpet create a unique sound. I wish more bands were melding styles like this band. They bringing jazz and classical to hip hop. The breathy jazz trumpet works so well with the beats!
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