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My Friend John by The Fratellis (playing now). Click the  button to hear Babydoll. |
Here We Stand continues the manic energy of the first album. The Fratellis are known for their mix of sounds. Their album wheels about between musical styles. There are catchy pop pieces alongside blues songs alongside crooning ballads. The album offers something for everyone.
The album gets off to a strong start with My Friend John, a fast-paced rock piece. The song most closely reflects the band’s sound from their previous album; that is to say, it sounds similar to the greatest number of songs that sound at all alike. The song brings out energetic guitar riffs and bass lines that never take from the lyrics.
A few tracks later comes the more bubblegum Look Out Sunshine!, the second single from the album. Lighter lyrics and gentler guitar abound.
Mistress Mabel comes a few tracks later. This catchy first single from the album focuses on fast guitar licks and feisty piano playing.The next song that really catches the ear is Babydoll, a Bob Dylan-esque ballad. After the last couple of higher-energy songs, the song is a nice change of pace as the album begins to wind down.
The most catchy song on the album is, by far, Acid Jazz Singer. The song begins deceptively slowly before picking up at the chorus. The song features beautiful piano work alongside more rocking guitar solos.
Whether you’re into harder rock music or more technical playing, The Fratellis have something you’ll love. Pick the album up, but don’t tell any of your friends about it for a while. When they finally start listening to the band just say, “Oh, The Fratellis? Yeah, I love those guys. I’ve been listening to them for months.”
