The Fairchilds
Gig Seeker Pro

The Fairchilds

Scottsdale, Arizona, United States | INDIE

Scottsdale, Arizona, United States | INDIE
Band Rock Alternative

Calendar

Music

Press


"The Fairchilds, Our Revolution"

The Fairchilds is a one man band consisting of Cyril Niccolai. He is a multi-instrumentalist oozing with musical vision. This Debut CD, “Our Revolution” is a definite head turner.

It is not only outstanding music it is a movement. Niccolai has a knack for driving a point home through lyrical content and alluring music. The rockin’ tunes feel rebellious, with a cause, and display unwavering strength with its wisdom. Instrumentally the songs demand you to stand up and take action. You can’t listen to this and sit still; absolutely impossible. As a songwriter he has the full package. He knows how to tell a story on a universal level that sucks you into his world. I’m here to tell you, his world is a very cool place to be.

Then he’ll sneak in some haunting ballads that make you want to cry and then make you feel so uplifted you would think he just took you to church. My favorite song is, “Unbreakable” for that very reason. He puts you in the moment where you know what it feels to be broken but then he picks you up and shows you a light at the end of the tunnel.

The Fairchilds ability to evoke emotions is uncanny. It is as if the music itself is a needle and thread connecting each word, creating one entity. The work on “Our Revolution” is a musical masterpiece. The fact that it was created by one person is mind blowing. - Skope Magazine


"THE FAIRCHILDS Frontman Discusses Why He Chose Music Over Medicine"

In an age when the singer/songwriter has taken a backseat to over-produced fluff and industry created trend hipsters, it’s nice to discover a project like The Fairchilds. The band is the creative child of Cyril Niccolai, who hails from France but now makes his home in Phoenix, Arizona.

Niccolai, who grew up on metal bands such as Testament, Metallica and Guns N’ Roses, later found a passion for writing and performing music with more emotion and pop-sensibility. He culled some 200 songs from which he chose the 12 tracks on The Fairchild’s debut, Our Revolution. The album was produced by Jim Lowe (Foo Fighters, Stereophonics).

Despite his family’s wishes that he follow their footsteps into medicine, which Niccolai did attend school for, he jumped into a stage production of Notre Dame de Paris. He played the poet Gringoire, which is perhaps apt given his musical and lyrical vocation. After his parents saw his performance and saw his talent and passion for the arts, there was no turning back. The Doctors Niccolai understood that music would be the path for their son.

The Fairchild’s music, while emotive and personal, is still about a positive uplifting message, even in trying times. The album’s first single, “Unbreakable” is a tribute to hanging tough in our darkest most painful moments.

While Our Revolution may be one of the quietest releases of the fall, it is certainly one of the best debuts to come out this year. Niccolai, and The Fairchilds have made a memorable album that stands on its own today, but also shows extraordinary promise for the future.

I recently had an opportunity to chat with the band’s founder about his path into theater, music, his move to America, and his recent special acoustic performance in the Bay Area alongside the likes of Daughtry and Nickelback.

- mojoradio


"Our Revolution Review"

The Fairchilds is a band led by French singing/songwriter, Cyril Niccolai.
The son of successful doctors, Niccolai broke away from his studies in
medicine to pursue what was really his heart's passion: music. Honing his
vocal and performing skills in various musicals in France, garnering
critical acclaim in shows such as Notre Dame de Paris.

The band's first album, Our Revolution, is a 12 song powerhouse derived from
over 200 songs that Cyril had written. The influences of Niccolai's idols
such as Elvis, U2, Bon Jovi, Guns N' Roses, the Goo Goo Dolls, Muse and many
others are evident. But make no mistake about it: Cyril Niccolai is his own
man and his music reflects that fact.

Each cut on Our Revolution are musical gems that can stand quite well on
their own. The first track, I Need You, is a song that contains a quote
from Martin Luther King, Jr., "means we use shall be as pure as the ends we
seek" and was inspired by the election of President Barack Hussein Obama and
the wave of optimism that swept among his supporters. Regardless of your
political leanings, the song will certainly inspire and uplift you.

The CD's first single, Unbreakable, is a commentary one's pursuit of dreams
despite the odds against accomplishing them and passionately reflects his
own experiences during those times. Story of My Life piggybacks on this
theme, somewhat, a couple of songs later with a light, happy-go-lucky vibe
to it. It's sure to lodge itself into the listeners mind, causing them to
hum the tune for hours afterward.

The Boomerocity favorite on this album is High. Rich in melody and majestic
tone, this song suffered "repeat button abuse" . . . repeatedly. While all
the songs are great on this album, High is worth the purchase price alone.
A very close second Boomerocity favorite is the Beatlesque Misery Likes
Company. Incredibly well written and performed, this tune is destined
should find its way to becoming a timeless classic.

Boomerocity is going to keep a close eye on Niccolai and the rest of the
Fairchilds. They're on deliberate, methodical path to well deserved
stardom.

- Boomerocity


"Like Bon Jovi or Coldplay? Check Out The Fairchild’s “Our Revolution.” – Album Review"

When I was in junior high/high school all I wanted to be when I grew up was a guitar player like Joe Perry from Aerosmith. I could play guitar, but I wasn’t really that good. I also knew that the odds of a career in music were slim to none, so I went to college to become an accountant. I got through accounting, but the only thing that really kept my interest. Currently I’m an accountant, but this gig at “Zoiks!” has allowed for me to live vicariously through all of these other musicians who had a similar dream to me, but a much better work ethic.

Cyril Niccolai of The Fairchilds shared my dream, but he made it happen. Whenever you see someone’s dream become a reality it is inspiring. The Fairchild’s debut album “Our Revolution” is inspiring. Cyril Niccolai is the face of The Fairchilds. His musical influences include Bon Jovi, U2, Guns n Roses, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Elvis, The Goo Goo Dolls, Muse, and Coldplay. Niccolai’s music took the positive and inspiring parts of all of those bands and created “Our Revolution.”

If you’re into Bon Jovi and Coldplay, then “Our Revolution” is a must. There are a million different types of different vocalist out there. Some of them have a voice that is an acquired taste, like Neil Young or Bob Dylan. Other singers have a more universal voice that anybody can get into. Jon Bon Jovi or Bono are the perfect examples of that and you can add Cyril Niccolai to that list.

Currently the track “Unbreakable” is making noise as The Fairchilds first single. There are several other songs on here that I think can and will win the hearts of million. There is no better story than the underdog making their dream come true. The Fairchild’s “Our Revolution” is that story. - Zoiks


"The Fairchilds - 'Our Revolution' CD Review"

The Fairchilds is a band led by French singing/songwriter, Cyril Niccolai. But more than that, the band's classic rock look and sound reveals the influence of some truly great legends of rock music. Sure they have found a cozy home in the belly of that genesis, but at least it's one less conventional than one would expect.
Cyril, a young medical student, allowed himself to accept the beckoning call of the music siren, choosing to ditch the medical profession and opt instead for a rock life - small clubs, small paychecks and, at times, small love given back.
His band’s first album, Our Revolution, is a 12-song powerhouse derived from over 200 songs that Cyril had written. The influences of his aformentioned idols are all over this recording though. Names such as Elvis, U2, Bon Jovi, Guns N’ Roses, the Goo Goo Dolls, Muse and many others are so evident there are times when you think it might well be a cover album!
But make NO mistake about it, for Cyril Niccolai is his own man and his music reflects that fact. Produced by Jim Lowe (Stereophonics, The Charlatans), Our Revolution tells sing-along rock anthems at their fullest, and also incorporates some haunting ballads too. Word has it that during the recording, a vintage Fairchild amp had been used - hence the inspiration for the name of the band.
- Exclusive Magazine


"The Fairchilds"

I love when I get a CD in the mail that I wasn't expecting, with a note that essentially says, "not sure you will like this." Being the guy who can
listen to Alice Cooper on a Saturday and then Barry Manilow on Sunday, nothing is outside my scope.

Disc opener "I Need You" is a great song to kick of a debut album with. You get great lyrics, vocals, and the music is quite good. You find out soon that there are weapons which recent import from France Cyril is keeping hidden. The title track follows, and I am treated to good rock with pop sensibility. This one has an interesting mixture of big choruses and varied background vocals - quite the pleasant mix.

"Unbreakable" is next up, and not only is it self-descriptive, it is one of
the better songs on the disc (especially the bonus track remix). This song lends itself to AOR and modern rock radio. Next comes "Who Am I." The song starts in one direction and quickly does a u-turn, and for the better. Cyril was clearly headed down a wrong road, but corrected and took this song back into rock territory.

"Story Of My Life" sounds familiar, but I can't pin it down. Maybe I am just digging on a song that again holds all the components of a AOR Rock song. This one gets the toes tapping and I can picture rocking out to this one live. "High is the first ballad-type song here, but it is still a solid song that keeps you from advancing looking for another rocker. I gave this one a chance and am very glad I did. "Body Of Lies" brings the swagger back to the CD, but you have to wait for the next song, "Life Is Beautiful" for the big vocals and grand harmonies. This tune really helps keep the second half of the disc on track, if you are looking for great pop sensibility and hooks.

"Misery Likes Company" is probably one of my favorite tracks on the disc.
This song has all the angst of a modern rock song, chilled vocals of a great STP song, absolutely killer guitar work, and it builds itself into a solid rock piece. "My Name" barges in with conviction and runs rampant all over the place with authority and solid musicianship. This song has more pop and less rock, as does the next track, "Song 12." The chorus has solid rock pieces, without being over done. It keeps its simplicity and, if you added a screaming guitar solo ala the 80's, you would have a great rocker. Disc closer (with the exception of the aforementioned bonus track remix) "Turn Back Time" is a mellow song that leaves you wanting more. With soaring vocals, a nice touch of keyboards, and good guitar work, this song begs for another disc.

Did Cyril blow his proverbial load on the debut disc from The Fairchilds? Only time will tell, but let me say. damn, I hope not. Do yourself a favor and check this one out - you just might be as glad and pleasantly surprisedas I was and am. - Rockpit.net


"The Fairchilds"

By Sally A Schwartz

The Fairchilds' debut album, "Our Revolution" on indie label Vertusent, came across my desk just a few short weeks ago. The effort is the lovechild of French artist Cyril Niccolai. Niccolai, whose looks are a cross between C.C. DeVille and Sting, is not only a songwriter but also filled with talent. He displays his strengths as vocalist and on keyboards and acoustic guitar. The Fairchilds are rounded out by lead guitarist Oliver Marlyison, rhythm guitarist Erick Sitbon, bassist Hugo Cechosz and Philippe Entressangle on drums and percussion.

I would call "Our Revolution" modern renaissance for not only its adult contemporary grooves, but its genre of far-ranging appeal. My favorite song off the album is track three, "Unbreakable," which was re-mastered for track 13 on the effort. The tune comes at a time when many are questioning the unfolding events around them. From loss of work and loss of all that you have worked for to the loss of relationships, this song brings out the will of survival in all scenarios. The day that I received this CD and put it into my own player, I was undergoing my own inner search for strength and come to the realization that as long as I have the will to survive, I too am "Unbreakable" and there is hope. So, it would be a lie for me to say that this song didn’t strike a chord deep down within me.

Another song I really liked off the album was "Body of Lies." For me, this song rang out about how the political and corporate leaders of the world have the ability to deceive and buy their way into our lives. Deceiving the general public and making us believe that what they offer is better, that they are working for us, but in the end they are only working to better suit themselves.

Overall, I think this is a great CD. I can tell that much went into its making and it brings out hope for a brighter future. I have found that I have put it into my player more than once for a listen and enjoy its contents greatly. I hope you the reader will do the same.

- DaBelly


"THE FAIRCHILDS, OUR REVOLUTION"

The Fairchilds is the brainchild of French artist Cyril Niccolai on vocals, guitar, and keys, and supporting players, Olivier Marly and Erik Sitbon on guitars, Hugo Cechosz on bass, and Philippe Entressangle on drums. I know, it sounds like the cast of characters from a Charles Dickens novel, and we are curious how they dress.
High, Misery Likes Company (in a Beatlesque manner) and Turn Back Time are decent ballads that flow with Cyril’s voice. The ballad Unbreakable could have been a decent follow up for The Verve Pipe’s only hit, The Freshman. Song 12, Who I Am, and I Need You have the flavor and the delivery of the extremely popular format followed by arena rock groups of the day like 30 Seconds To Mars, and Muse. Story Of My Life follows the format in a catchy pop sort of way. Life Is Beautiful is a romantic themed piece, while My Name is the rocker of the release. You can hear the influence of the British Invasion throughout the release, which isn’t a bad thing.
The songs are delivered and mixed well, and the lyrics don’t bore or offend you. Get ready, as Cyril is bringing the show to the U.S.
By RME
- Skope Magazine


Discography

First Single: Unbreakable (radio mix by Mark Endert). This song was just added to SIRIUS PULSE and KBFF in Portland, OR on December 5.

Debut Album: Our Revolution (Produced by Jim Lowe) released by Vertusent through RED Distribution, a Division of Sony Music Entertainment.

Photos

Bio


Cyril Niccolai could be termed a modern Renaissance man. An accomplished singer and songwriter, he has spent over a decade honing his skills in his chosen field of rock music. Contemporaneously, he studied medicine and law in university, engages in a variety of sports including tennis, golf and scuba diving, dabbles in still and video photography, has a keen interest in literature and art and is a self-confessed tech geek. The globe trotting foodie next aspires to run the New York City marathon, learn more foreign languages and keep challenging himself with new projects.

But for now, his focus is on The Fairchilds. As frontman, he helms the band with a lethal combination of commanding stage presence, solid vocals and confident guitar fretting. Our Revolution, the debut album from The Fairchilds, offers an insight into all these qualities with tracks ranging from sing-along rock songs to hauntingly seductive ballads.

The first single, “Unbreakable”, is a poignant commentary on the pursuit of one’s dreams against the odds. Flashback to the Christmas before he recorded the album – Niccolai was at his family home in the Cote d’Azur with the album weighing heavily on his mind. “I was due to start recording in April and while I had enough songs for the album, I still felt something was lacking,” he recalls. Time was fast running out as he was committed to perform in a musical for the next three months. The ticking clock, the desire to put together a solid album that would form a comprehensive showcase of his musical style, the fear of letting down those involved in the project and the constant need to project an aura of confidence provided the creative impetus for “Unbreakable”. “The song came very quickly and it captured the emotions perfectly. I remember that Jim Lowe [the producer of the album] loved the song right away and told me we had something special. It is a dedication to everyone who is going through a tough phase and the message is ‘Hang in there, don’t lose hope’. It’s a very intense song when played live, but always creates such a wonderful feeling.”

The easygoing confidence which Niccolai exudes belies the turmoil of the emotions within him. “The truth about confidence is that it is a mask for fear. I know that’s true because I feel it every time I go onstage or think about how this album that I’ve put my soul into will be received. But fear can make positive things happen. Fear of failure can make you work harder. Fear of being hurt or injured can make you find the strength to fight injustice, or to speak your mind. These are things I explore, personally and musically.”

This perpetual need to challenge himself is deep-rooted. The son of successful doctors, Niccolai traded the stability and predictability of a career in medicine for the bohemian lifestyle of a singer and songwriter. Unbeknownst to his parents, he auditioned for the role of the poet Gringoire in the smash French musical Notre Dame de Paris. Notwithstanding his lack of experience, he landed the role and summoned the courage to tell his parents of his career change. The news was not well received but his performance at the premiere left them no doubts about his potential in his new career.

In a perfect world, Niccolai would have launched straight into the world of rock music but as a young singer starting out in France, musicals gave him the opportunity to polish and refine his skills through regular performances before large audiences. It also paid the bills and allowed him to embark on a self-apprenticeship of writing songs and studying from his musical inspirations, such as Bon Jovi, U2, Guns N’ Roses, The Beatles, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Other bands which influenced him along the way include The Goo Goo Dolls, Muse, Lifehouse, Coldplay and Skid Row.

“I was slowly learning what it is to be a real songwriter,” Niccolai recounts. “I probably wrote more than 200 songs to get the 12 for this album. It usually starts with the music and then I start to sing the melody in what I call ‘yogurt mode’ — key words just springing into my mind. And from those words, the story develops. I believe everything is linked: a melody, a mood, some characters, a story… all interdependent.”

Our Revolution, his musical vision for The Fairchilds combines bold, winning melodies with a broad perspective of the world and an unerring sense of uplift. That was buoyed by cutting edge British producer Jim Lowe, who has also worked with Stereophonics, Herbie Hancock and Foo Fighters. And justice, hope and promise are recurring themes.

“High,” a song about the rush of feelings from the discovery of a new love, the sting of heartbreak or the like, is underpinned by the theme of hope. That emotional torrent is channeled in a soaring guitar coda that kicks the tune up from ballad to rocker. Across the debut, Niccolai delivers his thoughts, beliefs, hopes, dreams and observances with an articulate heartfelt spin