Imagine The Strokes,The Jam and Pulp all blanded into 11 tracks and you've pretty much got the sound of The Rakes debut album.Hailing from London's recent art-rock scene,Which has given us the likes of Bloc Party and The Others.The Rakes are the new darling of the English music press.
The Rakes write songs about waking up in fat girl's beds.Highly paid jobs in the city and German spys.All wrapped up in Jerky guitars and British charm.The Rakes have created a rocking debut which glows confidence and wit.It's already one of my favourite album so far this year (Through it's got no chance next to Arcade Fire's funeral).
First track 'Strasbourg' is great with a fiery shambolic chrous (plus it's a pretty good drinking song).Next Track 'Retreat' is amazing.It's impossible not to dance to it as well as some pretty good lyrics''should i give my money to a good cause or save for a holiday,In a couple of weeks i could be in paradice''.'22 grand job' is the same.Danceable as hell and extremely catchy and that theme continues all way through the album.From 'Open Book' to The Smiths sounding 'We Are All Animals'.There is rarely a dull moment.Closer 'Work, Work Work (Pub, Club, Sleep)' is a great end to a rather great album.With quite than loud dynamics.
But the real greatness behide this record is it's so British.Lyrics about cheap holidays in Spain and hating your crappy 9 to 5 job in the office.I very much doubt any outside the UK will like this for that mind.For example one or two people may have read some of my comments regarding the Emo scene and how i hate it for it's blandness and the subject of most of the songs (Jocks,Bad Prom nights and fancying Cheerleaders)i just don't get why it's so popular.Well now American will feel the same way.Songs about late night pub lock ups are not gonna be too familar to fans of Talking Back Sunday are they.
So overall i think 'Capture/Release' is great album a bit off in some places.The Rakes will not change your life (unless your in the band).But it'll Definitely make it to a few end of year best of lists.
Pros:
+Catchy and danceable
+Not a bad track on it
+Great Lyrics
Cons:
-A bit too 'British' at times
-For some reason i really don't like that title
Download:
Retreat
Strasbourg
Work, Work Work (Pub, Club, Sleep)
22 Grand Job
Open Book
Websites:
www.therakes.co.uk
http://www.nme.com/reviews/11981.htm (For a longer review)
