Album: Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action
Record Label: Domino
"Right Thoughts..." sees the Glaswegian band recapture their style in magnificent fashion, says Will Rogers
Franz Ferdinand haven’t released a record since 2009, and to
many it feels even longer as the previous record left many fans feeling
underwhelmed. Though “Tonight” still had some undoubted highlights, it was
generally an album that people believed saw the band lose their sound.
Accusations levelled ranged from the sound being 'superficial' to 'too much
like their other stuff'. So perhaps it would be fair to ask how the band puts
these worries to bed.
“Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action” is the perfect
reminder of what Franz Ferdinand stand for. Always a bit different from their
competition dated back in 2004 after their debut album, “Franz Ferdinand”, the
band has recaptured that ability to dominate indie disco playlists.
Opening with “Right Action”, with its serrated riffs, new
wave synth licks and a snap of snare, there couldn't be a better way for Franz
Ferdinand to announce their return. Not only is it a suitable album opener, it
is a track capable of opening what could be a number of worldwide festival
appearances. Though the album's second track “Evil Eye” offers something
different from the norm, and is therefore unlikely to prove as popular on the
bands live performances, it perfectly shows how the band are able to let their
hair down with a shorter, snappier sound.
“Love Illumination” sees the band return to their more
traditional sound and is as equally strong as the opener. Though more of a
typical Indie hit, that signature disco sound is maintained.
While it is fair to say that “Treason! Animals” is a
particular low point, dipping in and out from being either catchy to just an
annoying ringing sound, 'Bullet’ is yet another highlight as well as one to
look out for in the chart listings as it is certainly set to be a future
single. The track sucks you in with a signature intro and is likely to see the
band continue their affiliation with football fans as it is sure to feature on
the upcoming Fifa '14.
While taking a lengthy break before releasing material can
often risk alienating and therefore losing fans, “Right Thoughts, Right Words,
Right Action” is the perfect treat for those that stayed interested, as well as
a potential new audience that are sure to be impressed.
Key Tracks: Right Action, Bullet, Evil Eye, Love Illumination
For fans of: Gang of Four, Bloc Party
9/10
By Will J. Rogers
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