Customer Reviews

Couples

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When the Long Blondes released their debut album in 2006, the band initially seemed like just another of the dozen post-punk, artsy British outfit that the U.K. had pumped out since Franz Ferdinand, and a poorly named one, at that: no one in the band is blonde. The Long Blondes had an ace up their sleeve, however: firebrand lead singer Kate Jackson's vibrant personality, powerful voice, and satirical lyrics, all of which dominate Couples.

Lead single "Century" is about as New Wave as you can get in 2008, with Jackson sounding like Debbie Harry reborn and the music all Depeche Mode synths and bubbly bass lines. "Guilt" and "The Couples" continues the album's theme of tragic relationships, but unlike the weepy Cure-mimicking love songs common in the New Wave-revival scene, Jackson is merciless and acidic towards her ex's, defiantly proclaiming "guilt has nothing to do with it" to a dumped boyfriend.

Couples unfortunately slows down around the midway point, however, with songs like "Round the Hairpin" and "Too Clever By Half" meandering off into showy drum work and the kind of slow balladry that only stunts the album's momentum. Half of an album of excellent songs and Jackson's distinctive vocals, however, are more than most bands can offer today.

Couples has some interesting lyrics. And the music is ok. But I listened carefully to the CD the first time I got it. Nothing really grabbed me. One time I said, "This is a pretty good song." The band really isn't all that great, and I don't see myself listening to this CD much in the future.

While i really liked the tougher sound of the first album, this is the Long Blondes getting more in touch with their 70's pop side (i.e. Blondie derived). I am not sure that it suits them that well. They had actually found their own sound and image and it is somewhat sad that they have to backtrack and go into more obvious influences...