Down in Albion

by

Babyshambles

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Babyshambles dive head first into the 1970's punk scene. With the help of The Clash's Mick Jones, this sounds like Pete Doherty's "London Calling". It's simply stunning, even with the inclusion of Kate Moss, who gets a vocal credit on `La Belle Et La Bete' and a song writing credit for `What Katy Did Next'. Unfortunately the media's tabloid trash talk could have an effect on Doherty's best work. If only they knew how to report happy news.

With sixteen songs this could well be Babyshambles attempt to emulate The Clash. The songs certainly contain a late 70's punk sound and the band has the image to accompany it. By far this is better than anything recorded by The Libertines; it's much more creative in almost every way.

So forget the drugs and bad publicity, no one criticises the greatest bands from the past for their drug use. Drugs have managed to create some pretty amazing songs. They waited till late in the year to release "Down in Albion" but it's one of 2005's best

Exhibit A for what is wrong with this album: the single version of Killamangiro (released well before this album) is Much Much better than the album version of the same song. The single version is intense, punchy, and explosive. The album version, while not terrible, sounds like a first or second take of the same song. It is a little flacid and out of focus. What happened to the ripping guitars and the strong rhythm section?

Pete is obviously a very talented and clever song writer. And when he tries, he's also a first class singer. That's what makes this album such a frustrating listen. He mumbles and sounds detached on many of the songs here. The band doesn't perform as tightly or energetically as it did on the Zane Lowe sessions or on the early B-sides. Maybe this is intentional or maybe the band has changed.

Two excellent tracks: Albion and the 32nd of December. I think the Zane Lowe version of F**k Forever is way better than the version on this album. Try to download it if you can. I also prefer the older version of Back from the Dead over the version on this album. It appears as a B-side to the Wolfman "For Lovers" song (I believe Carl plays on it).

This album could have been great, instead it is very uneven. Its makes early Pavement and Sebadoh sound over-produced and too focused! I'm a big fan of the Libertines and believe that Pete has a unique vision when his game is on. I'd recommend this album to folks who like the more "romantic" aspects of the Libertines. But it is not for the casual listener.