travis-theboywithnoname music reviews Virgin Media
Scottish indie stalwarts surprise critics and fans with foray into West Coast gangsta rap
Only kidding! Travis are back, but not much has changed. Whether or not this is a good thing is up to you - some are seduced by their clever lyrics and wistful melodies, others are put off by occasional lapses into sixth-form melancholy. The band have been working recently with producers such as Brian Eno and Nigel Godrich (Radiohead producer and legendary hardass) - have they whipped the boys into shape?
Fan-pleasing elements abound - there are moments of real beauty, and the tone is altogether less lachrymose than their last two efforts. Expect soaring chords, Fran's heartfelt voice, bags of charm - it's just a bit safe. Pacier songs like Selfish Jean (which calls to mind early smash U16 Girls) and Colder are among the best they've recorded, but New Amsterdam - all mawkish, arty-farty sentiments - is weak by any standard. You'll love this if you love Travis, but will it win them any new followers?
