In a minority of 1, I wasn't a big fan of their first album. I liked I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor, but that was about it. Fortunately for me, Pippa is a huge fan and so it went without saying that there would be a copy of this album in our household from the very day it was released.
And boy am I grateful. This is the best straight-up no-nonsense rock record I have heard in years. It seems that over the last year the boys have been learning to channel their energy and talent. And in doing so they have produced an album that is at once more energising, more thoughtful and beautifully crafted. Like the best punk records of the 70s (think Buzzcocks et al) it makes you want to jump around like a madman; and like the best indie records of the 80s (think Echo and the Bunneymen) it makes you sit down and listen. I guess the closest comparison for me is The Jam.
Anyway, every track is an absolute killer, from the opening rabble of Brianstorm to the mellow closer Back to 505. Alex Turner's lyrics are always keenly observed and full of knowing witticism. He bends the English language to his own will.
My personal favourite is Do Me a Favour. Mainly because it exemplifies everything that makes this a great album in 1 song. A great melody, cunning lyrics and a crescendo that never fails to get me yearning for a bit of carnage! Here's a live version for you to enjoy.
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