Franz Ferdinand – The Human Fear (Domino Records) 13th Floor Album Review

The law of diminishing returns affects us all in life, well 99% of us, and sadly as Franz Ferdinand have travelled their through their career, they have lost members, voluminous record sales, and unfortunately, on the their sixth album, become the heedful Uncles of indie, rather than sons of (avant) situationism.

The Human Fear kicks off with the album’s lead single Audacious, reminiscent and permeated with the classic angular guitar riffs, and unforgettable vocal anarchistic crooning that made Franz Ferdinhand darlings of the alt punk scene in the 00’s. But then enthusiasm dips over the next few tunes, though Hooked does have a hookier vibe, and disco danceability.

Sadly Build It Up fails to quite reach the heights of past success, and at this point hope is being dashed. As the slew of remaining songs, until the narrative ends, fail to capture attention. Even Cats, a title that promised nihilism, ends up again not quite delivering, almost, but not enough bite.

Franz Ferdinand

The Human Fear is the second Franz Ferdinand long player since longtime writer/guitarist Nick McCarthy left the band, and the first without original drummer Paul Thomson. It is the first to feature members Audrey Tait and Dino Bardot. Changes in personnel have seen the writing and recording process suffer amorphization, and in their attempt to give their loyal followers joy, sadly the outcomes are verses that sound somewhat stilted. 

Simon Coffey

The Human Fear will be available on LP, Deluxe LP, CD and Digital from January 10th and can be pre-ordered HERE