Surprising debut from a band known for its softer melodies. (Good Feeling - Travis)

Member Name: roversrobin

Product:	Good Feeling - Travis
Date:	24/07/09 (5 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great rock and roll songs

Disadvantages: None, unless you expect another 'The Man Who'

Travis' reputation as strong, melodic songwriters that appealed to the MOR-buying public was formed on albums such as 'The Man Who' and 'The Invisible Band'. Prior to the breakthrough success achieved via 'The Man Who' (a terriffic album in its own right), Travis had much rawer indie-rock roots that made up the sound of debut album 'Good Feeling'.

Having brought into the Travis phenomenon with the later album, I was surprised just how rocky and raw this album was the first time I heard it.

Opener 'All I Wanna Do Is Rock' is a slow stomper that is a perfect manifesto for the remainder of the record, with its straightforward lyrics and distorted guitars.

And so the album continues. 'U16 Girls' and 'Tied To The 90s' are fun songs with very definate subject matters and are brilliantly addictive. 'The Line Is Fine' and 'Midsummer Nights Dreaming' demonstrate Fran Healy's voice at its rawest - a huge difference from the sweet, smooth vocals he later came to be known for.

There are also a few slower songs which show off Travis' softer side, however. 'I Love You Anyways' is a beautiful love song about seeing through a loved one's flaws; whilst album closer 'Funny Thing' is a stunning song that starts quietly before building into a full band-and-string crescendo.

It is certainly an album that many people discovered after the band broke into prominence and in my opinion is still their best; I have hoped for years that they will go back and produce a similar record to this.

Summary: Brilliant, underrated debut from one of Scotland's best-known bands.