The Bluetones - Expecting To Fly (re-release)
Probably the most determined of ‘Britpop survivors’, Hounslow wonderboys The Bluetones are back yet again with a re-release of their classic album Expecting to Fly. Undoubtedly the band’s greatest work, it might’ve been one of the most memorable records of the 90s, had it not been for those daft Oasis/Blur feuds. But now that those days and nights are nothing more than a murky memory, it might just be time for The Bluetones to take centre stage.
Just like our youthful selves, it would be nice to think that the songs hadn’t aged a day since their mid-90s foray into the open battlefield. As opener Talking To Clarry fires into action though, it’s immediately clear that it really has been that long since we last strode out in stonewash denim – too long perhaps. The chug of the drums, chiming guitars, mousey vocals and shout-along choruses; it’s all flooding back.
While certain Britpop debuts have earned legendary status and gone down in history like valiant heroes of war, others sadly seem to have limped out in the shadow clutching strained wrists and busted lips. The boys’ 1995 smash Bluetonic, though a favourite back then, just seems weedy and try-hard in comparison to the likes of Don’t Look Back in Anger and Wonderwall. Despite prompting great remembrances for those of use who enjoyed them the first time round, it’s hard to imagine any of these songs not being gobbled up and spat out today by the likes of Lady Gaga and Girls Aloud.
The majority of the CD just doesn’t feel relevant to the dark and unnerving Britain we’re faced with in 2009. These were songs written at a time when everything was on the up and years of hurt were being flung out on the hope of us winning Euro ’96. Slight Return is probably the only track that genuinely sounds as good now as it did back then. Flipping back and forth between tender love song verses and bop-along, arm-waving choruses, it’s a fine example of the band’s knack for nailing down a decent tune.
Putting Out Fires and Time & Again will also have you dancing, but by the time you reach the end of the album you’ll probably spot the same few riffs being recycled in the rush to get songs out before Britpop inevitably died its untimely death. If you didn’t buy the album upon its initial release, the bonus CD of B-Sides and rarities might make it worth an investment – let those hazy memories roll back in. If, on the other hand, you don’t remember The Bluetones your money would probably be much better spent elsewhere.
Rating: 3/5
Skip To: Slight Return
Anthony Hill