The Courteeners: 'Falcon' (UME Imports)
2. Take Over The World
3. Cross My Heart & Hope To Fly
4.You Overdid It Doll
5. Lullaby
6. Good Times Are Calling
7. The Rest Of The World Has Gone Home
8. Sycophant
9. Cameo Brooch
10. Scratch Your Name Upon My Lips
11. Last Of The Ladies
12. Will It Be This Way Forever?
Towards the end of the wonderful debut St. Jude - NME-Europe's top album of 2008 - The Courteeners, those likely lads from Manchester, warned that we were 'Not Nineteen Forever'. It would appear that they too have taken heed of that message during the writing of Falcon, released on the UME Import label and under the guidance of producer Ed Buller (White Lies, Pulp, Suede)
Where St. Jude oozed swagger, Falcon is suave, albeit in an undeniable northern fashion. Extro- often becomes introvert and the leery lads are closer to lullabies than they are to lager louts. Those of you expecting more 'Cavorting', 'What Took You So Long?' or 'Not Nineteen Forever'-type tracks are not going to find them here, but don't be mistaken, Falcon is a terrific album in it's own right and one Fray and the gang can be extremely satisfied with.
The opener, cunningly titled 'The Opener' sets the mood. A track where lead singer Fray does a bit of soul-searching and seeks to reassure himself that he is still loved. Presumably aimed at his sweetheart, the track could almost be directed at his fans - a case of
look we've changed a little since our last release, I hope you still like us (deep down I think you will). Whatever the story, the track is sublime.
'Cross My Heart & Hope To Fly' is as clear an indicator there is as to The Courteeners' change in focus. Dark, with a piercing piano back beat Fray expresses a clear desire to get the hell out of wherever he is. 'Lullaby' maybe the reason escape is on the agenda, but in between the upbeat 'You Overdid It Doll' (the first single from the album) ensures manic depression doesn't set in. The album is taking great shape.
'The Good Times Are Calling' brings about another upturn, while 'Sycophant', possibly the album's catchiest track, appeals to our honesty. Despite a darker feel to the rest of the album, Falcon doesn't lose it's way. The harsh and distorted 'Scratch Your Name Upon My Lips' gives way to the melodious 'Last Of The Ladies', while the lyrically acute 'Will It Be This Way Forever?' fittingly calls time on proceedings.
The Courteeners have progressed. This Liam from Manchester is starting to understand that it's best to engage brain before opening your mouth. You might need a couple of listens to adjust yourself to the new Courteeners, but ultimately the only logical conclusion to reach is that Falcon is a well-balanced, quality album.
NC
NME-Europe rating: 8.5/10
Top Track: 'Cross My Heart & Hope To Fly'
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