Franz Ferdinand: A Legacy Act with a Retro Vibe
From New Wave Danciness to Britpop Optimism
Franz Ferdinand has navigated the music scene with a seamless transition into legacy act status, a transformation that feels both natural and well-earned. Known for their retro sound from the very beginning, the Glasgow quintet has always been intoxicated by the upbeat rhythms of new wave and the optimistic melodies of Britpop. Now entering their third decade, they released a greatest hits album in 2022 but opted against a 20th-anniversary tour for their iconic 2004 debut. Instead, they chose to prioritize new material in their live performances, a testament to their commitment to artistic integrity.
Quality Over Quantity: A Balanced Approach
Franz Ferdinand’s journey is marked by a consistent quality in their work. They have never released an album that could be deemed irredeemably bad, nor have they chased fleeting trends or indulged in superficial rebranding. As their output has slowed in recent years, this deliberate pacing has become a hallmark of their legacy status. The time that has elapsed since their last studio album, 2018’s vibrant Always Ascending, has even surpassed the duration of the Great War sparked by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Now, fans can finally anticipate a new album that, interestingly, mirrors the sound of its predecessor.
The Sound of The Human Fear
The forthcoming album, The Human Fear, exudes a breezy and unflappable cheerfulness, reminiscent of Franz Ferdinand’s earlier works. However, it lacks some of the punkish exuberance that characterized their formative years. Lead vocalist Alex Kapranos, now older and more reflective, explores themes of human experience and the accompanying fears. In the opening track “Audacious,” he croons, “Did you ever get the feeling that there’s something come undone?” The song embodies a sense of anti-defeatist optimism, with a catchy chorus encouraging listeners to embrace their audacity.
Character Sketches and Sardonic Vignettes
Kapranos employs his signature style of character sketches and sardonic narratives throughout the album. In “The Doctor,” he humorously portrays a hospital patient reluctant to leave, while “Bar Lonely” paints a picture of a lonely watering hole where everyone shares their solitude. Despite the somber themes, the music maintains a light-hearted quality, with catchy hooks and playful elements.
A Safe Yet Enjoyable Experience
While The Human Fear is inspired by concepts of terror and thrill, it ultimately plays it safe. The tracks are amiable and easygoing, filled with earworm hooks but lacking in dramatic risks. The only moment of genuine intensity comes from “The Birds,” a spiky post-punk closer that diverges from the album’s overall sound. Other attempts to step outside their comfort zone, such as the electroclash misstep “Hooked” or the klezmer-inspired “Black Eyelashes,” yield mixed results, leaving listeners questioning the band’s experimental edges.
Conclusion
Franz Ferdinand’s evolution into a legacy act showcases their unwavering commitment to quality music and artistic authenticity. With their new album The Human Fear, they continue to explore the complexities of human experience, albeit with a safe and familiar sound. While the album may not elicit the adrenaline rush associated with their earlier works, it provides an enjoyable listening experience that reflects their enduring charm.
FAQs
What is the main theme of The Human Fear?
The Human Fear explores the thrill of being human through the lens of various fears, featuring character sketches and sardonic vignettes rather than deep soul-baring introspection.
How does The Human Fear compare to previous albums?
The album retains the breezy and upbeat sound of previous works, particularly echoing the vibes of Always Ascending, but lacks some of the punk energy that characterized their earlier music.
What is the significance of their decision not to tour for the 20th anniversary?
By prioritizing new material over a nostalgia-driven tour, Franz Ferdinand emphasizes their commitment to evolving as artists and creating fresh music rather than relying solely on their past successes.
Are there any standout tracks on The Human Fear?
While the album is generally safe and amiable, “The Birds” stands out as a more intense, post-punk track that diverges from the overall sound, offering a glimpse of the band’s potential to experiment.