ChelseaThis is the first studio album from these guys in over a decade and the first time the trio of James Stevenson (The Alarm, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Cult, and Generation X), Chris Bashford and Gene October have played together on an album since 1979. Because Dave Martin wasn't able to record due to his multiple sclerosis so the band enlisted the services of Tony Barber of the Buzzcocks who has been a fill in since 99.
Just incase you may have not already been introduced to these guys, they play ‘77 style punk rock that remains fast with just a touch of melody when needed. However, they don't play as fast as they have in the past. There is also no shortage of catchy riffs, some pretty sweet leads and solos that are placed tastefully throughout the album. Gene October definitely has a unique voice that fits the style of music perfectly. At first I wasn't huge on them but after a few more spins they grew on me a lot. He really nailed the patterns in my personal favorite, "Cosy Family Way".
For the most part I enjoyed the lyrics, they had plenty of topics to speak about because I'm sure a lot has gone on in their lives as well as the world around them. They are songs about the war in Iraq, which is almost obligatory during these times. A nice love song that doesn't come off insincere in the least. A narrative of living in the urban UK. Songs about how music gets them through the days, whether listening to the radio or a 45 (K.X.L.U Radio must have some good jams on their station, can't say that about any station I've heard, local anyway). A song about kids being put on Ritalin too much, which is another song theme that is becoming more and more common. The funniest line in the album is in the line in "Mr Ferry's Son", "What a stupid wanker, what a silly cunt." It's also a little more funny when the dude saying it is in his 50's.
The recording sound really big and full. It's polished without going over the top, there's still a bit of an outdated sound, in a good way of course. I really like the placement of the vocals in the mix, it fits the sound of the band well. The guitar sounds crystal clear, it's nice and pure and devoid of any effects. The bass has just enough presence and is mixed in nicely in front of the drums. The drums sound good, nice crisp cymbal tone, the snare has good pop, the kick is good for what they are doing. You can tell these guys put in the time at the studio.
This one comes in a digi-pack with a nice 12 panel lyrical insert that includes a brief summary of what the band has been up to since their last studio album that came out over a decade ago and it has all of the lyrics are written nice and big. The back cover has the track listing written on a piece of paper to look like a set list, resting on the snare drum. But I got to say, I'm not huge on the color selection at all; pink, yellow, and light blue in parts. And the huge pink star on the front cover with the album of the title isn't up my alley either.
Rating: 3.5/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: Cosy Family Way and Ritalin Kid (awesome rock anthem) Synopsis: At first I wasn't too into it but the more I listened to it, it grew on me, especially the vocals. Not huge on the layout, really isn't my cup o tea. There are plenty of catchy and driving hooks. If you like the old UK stuff and are already a fan of these guys I would suggest picking this up when it drops Feb. 20th.