13.
The Fratellis
Here We Stand

At first I was somewhat disappointed with this – it certainly isn’t as instant (or, ultimately, quite as good) as their brilliant debut, Costello Music. On repeated listens, though, it becomes clear that The Fratellis know, better than most, how to write a quality rock song. As with the Eagles Of Death Metal album, this doesn’t really have much depth to it. It doesn’t really need to, though: it’s a simple collection of great tunes. Verse-chorus-verse, and maybe an undemanding solo once in a while. That’s it. Still, there’s a reason that formula is so enduring – so long as the verses and choruses (and solos) are good, it’s pretty much a winner every time. This is consistently strong throughout, with every single track being capable of putting a smile on my face. It’s easy to sing along to, it rollicks along a fair pace never pausing for breath, and, in spite of its apparent superficiality, I’ve continued to play it since July. Bouncy rock. The Fratellis make me happy.