Scottish band Franz Ferdinand has had numerous hits over their first two albums. Reputedly, the aim of their third album, "Tonight", was to lead off into a slightly new direction and make their sound even more dance-floor friendly. Lead single, "Ulysses", starts the album with a bang. Featuring a great build up, it is arguably the most Franz Ferdinand-song of the album and somewhat similar in style to their classics, "Take Me Out" and "The Dark of the Matinee". The electronic undertones ensure the song is the stand-out song of the album, and the lyrics "I've found a new way" are a portent for the tunes to come. If "Ulysses" is similar in style to Franz Ferdinand's stand-out tunes from the past, then "Lucid Dreams" is a nod in the new direction. Practically full-on electronica, ironically the song is actually testament to the band-members' beginnings which were apparently inclined towards synthesiser-elements. "Twilight Omens" is brilliant and has compelling ear-catching verses as well as attractive undertones. "Live Alone" features a chorus which rolls along like a slinky down a flight of stairs. Finally, "What She Came For", has all the ingredients to become an instant classic. For anyone tiring of the guitar-focused bands of the new millennia, this album offers relief. Indeed, it is the fusion of electronica and indie-rock that make this an exciting listen. Franz Ferdinand have struck a fine balance between the two musical genres too – the band utilises electronica without compromising lead-singer Alex Kapranos' vocals and the instrumental-components. Franz Ferdinand has indeed found a new way. 8.5/10 |