Kaiser Chiefs are an indie rock band from Yorkshire and their frontman Ricky Wilson recently appeared on the BBC singing competition show "The Voice". He was on the programme as a judge and this move seemed to divide music fans. Many thought it was "selling out" seeing as the man himself admitted that he was only on there "to sell records". Others didn't really seem to mind and they only saw it as a bit of harmless fun.To be fair, you've got to appreciate the fact that Ricky Wilson was being honest by saying that he's only there to sell records (artists have gotta pay the bills somehow!). However, you can't really help but feel that this album is a bit of a cash cow seeing as it was released just before "The Voice" final.
"Education, Education, Education & War" begins with a song that is classic Kaiser Chiefs. "The Factory Gates" has that mild fury that we're all used to and the hook in the chorus is decent. Other memorable moments include "One More Last Song" which is delivered with lots of energy, and album closer "Roses" which progressively builds up towards the end. Apart from that, there's not really much else that appeals.
"Coming Home" tries to be rousing but falls incredibly flat and "Misery Company" is just plain creepy. Again, "My Life" and "Meanwhile Up In Heaven" will try to grab your attention but they're a real chore to listen to. Most of these songs clock in at over 5 minutes and none of them are really interesting. Sure, there might be a decent melody here or there but Kaiser Chiefs are well known for their fun 3 minute hits, not 5 and a half minute snoozefests.
It could be argued that Kaiser Chiefs are trying to do something a bit out of their comfort zone but you can't help but feel that they're trying to appeal to middle aged people. Those who are older tend to watch "The Voice" and they'll like a light hearted pop/rock song or two. In fact, this is exactly what this album mostly is; rock/pop songs with no thrills. Overall it may be generalising to say that, however, Kaiser Chiefs were much better when they wrote lively anthems several years ago. Return to your roots next time lads.
OVERALL RATING: 4/10
BEST SONGS: THE FACTORY GATES, ONE MORE LAST SONG, ROSES.
