More on: Kaiser Chiefs

Label: B-Unique
Release Date: 26/02/07
Rating:

So to the 'difficult' second album from Kaiser Chiefs. Any pressure on this band after the huge success of 'Employment' must have passed them by, as their follow-up sounds effortlessly good. 'Yours Truly, Angry Mob' opens with the number one single 'Ruby' - a comforting, warm, fuzzy pop song that reminds us what Kaiser Chiefs do best of all - writing tremendous pop songs that can sum up a feeling in the simplest of ways.

The biggest difference here is the songs aren't necessarily immediate, with exceptions being the jaunty 'Everything Is Average Nowadays' and 'Heat Dies Down'. The songs are less anthemic overall, but are stronger. This really is Kaiser Chiefs going all mature on us, but with a more solid, complete album to show for it.

The production of this album is a huge improvement on 'Employment'. Their debut stripped the songs of the musical energy that they have live - here it is captured perfectly. Ricky Wilson's vocals sound are more expressive and confident, particularly on 'My Kind Of Guy', a sinister, but brilliant, Specials-style number.

Standout track 'The Angry Mob' epitomises the Kaiser Chiefs effect. It's like the spirit of 'I Predict A Riot', part two - less immediate at first, with no real chorus, but two catchy verses, and building up to the infectious 'angry mob' chant. It's a huge, bold song about ignorant mob mentality that encapsulates the energy that the band have live.

The weakest moments on 'Employment' were the closing slow numbers, but here the more calm numbers are given an epic quality, and are musically far superior. 'I Can Do Without You' has a wonderful retro pop feel, full of 'la la la's. 'Love's Not A Competition (But I'm Winning)', a simple heartfelt number, sweetly sung. An album highlight is 'Try Your Best' - this album's 'Caroline, Yes'. Starting off slowly like a long lost 'Parklife' number, it builds up to a crescendo of guitars, synths and vocals that leaves a lasting impression.

Album closer 'Retirement' shows the uncanny ability the Chiefs have for songwriting in the old-fashioned sense - you could imagine this in a Broadway musical. Brimming with confidence and showmanship, it creeps up on you and lodges in your head. Lyrically it's the strongest song here - it flows where the others can feel slightly clunky - it closes 'Yours Truly, Angry Mob' with the feeling that this band know exactly what's next. This is a band that have proved their staying power - anyone thinking Kaiser Chiefs were a flash in the pan should be eating humble pie right now.

Becky Reed

Kaiser Chiefs Official Site
Kaiser Chiefs Myspace