Album Info
| Artist: | Franz Ferdinand |
| Album: | Always Ascending |
| Released: | Europe, 9 Feb 2018 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Always Ascending | 5:21 |
| A2 | Lazy Boy | 2:59 |
| A3 | Paper Cages | 3:40 |
| A4 | Finally | 3:09 |
| A5 | The Academy Award | 4:14 |
| B1 | Lois Lane | 3:34 |
| B2 | Huck And Jim | 3:35 |
| B3 | Glimpse Of Love | 3:12 |
| B4 | Feel The Love Go | 4:46 |
| Saxophone - Terry Edwards | ||
| B5 | Slow Don't Kill Me Slow | 5:18 |
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Description
Always Ascending, the fifth studio album by Scottish indie rock band Franz Ferdinand, marks a significant departure from their previous sound while still retaining their signature style. Released in 2018, this album showcases the band's willingness to experiment and evolve, resulting in a refreshing and dynamic collection of tracks.
From the opening title track, "Always Ascending," it becomes evident that Franz Ferdinand has embraced a more electronic and dance-oriented sound. The pulsating synths and infectious rhythm immediately grab the listener's attention, setting the tone for the rest of the album. This shift in musical direction may surprise longtime fans, but it also demonstrates the band's desire to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Feel the Love Go." With its funky bassline and catchy chorus, it's an instant earworm that will have you dancing along. The song perfectly blends the band's rock roots with the newfound electronic elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Another highlight is "Lazy Boy," a track that showcases the band's ability to craft infectious melodies. The song's infectious guitar riffs and energetic rhythm make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Lead vocalist Alex Kapranos delivers his lyrics with his trademark charisma, adding an extra layer of charm to the track.
While the album leans heavily towards a more electronic sound, Franz Ferdinand hasn't completely abandoned their rock roots. Tracks like "Huck and Jim" and "Glimpse of Love" incorporate distorted guitars and driving rhythms, reminding listeners of the band's earlier work. These songs serve as a bridge between their past and present, demonstrating their ability to seamlessly blend genres.
Lyrically, Always Ascending explores themes of love, desire, and self-discovery. The lyrics are often introspective and poetic, offering a glimpse into the band's emotional journey. Songs like "Finally" and "The Academy Award" delve into the complexities of relationships, while tracks like "Lois Lane" and "Paper Cages" touch upon societal issues and personal struggles.
The production on the album is top-notch, thanks to the collaboration with renowned producer Philippe Zdar. Zdar's expertise in electronic music shines through, as he brings a polished and cohesive sound to the album. The mix of electronic elements and live instrumentation is seamless, creating a rich and textured sonic landscape.
Always Ascending is not without its flaws, however. Some tracks, such as "Glimpse of Love," feel slightly repetitive and lack the same level of excitement as the album's standout moments. Additionally, the album's experimentation may alienate some longtime fans who prefer the band's earlier sound.
In conclusion, Franz Ferdinand's Always Ascending is a bold and ambitious album that showcases the band's willingness to evolve and explore new musical territories. While the shift towards a more electronic sound may divide opinions, there is no denying the infectious energy and catchy melodies that permeate the album. With its standout tracks and introspective lyrics, Always Ascending is a testament to the band's growth and artistic maturity. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this album is worth a listen for its unique blend of rock and electronic elements.
