Wonderland - Charlatans

It’s hard to believe that the Charlatans have just produced their seventh album (compilations excluded). Not only have they survived baggy and Britpop but a series of personal tragedies that include line-up changes, jail sentences and death. But you can’t keep a good band down, or so it seems and no better proof of this is the polish and verve of their latest album, Wonderland. The shiny laminated; deep-coloured sleeve says it all before you’ve even taken the CD out of the plastic case. Gone is the indie image of Tellin’ Stories and the cut-n-past look of the almost retrospect Us & Us Only. The Charlatans are brimming with swagger and ...  Read the complete review

Cutting edge, at the forefront of music reviews, ahead of the pack as ever, thought I’d finally write my review of the latest Charlatans offering, the ideas for which have been buzzing round my little brain for a couple of weeks now. And as I write I’m only 2 reviews too late on DooYoo and a mere 27 days behind indieboy. So in a spirit of fair play and me being such a nice chap please read both indieboy’s and kfingleton’s writings if you haven’t already done so- they’re both worth a look. Right, now I’m feeling all cuddly and warm from my generous spirit can I actually add anything to what’s already been written? ...  Read the complete review

In fact, when you think about it, this probably IS the the best album of the Charlatans' carreer. From the outset of 'You're So Pretty', you know that this is a change of direction for the Charlatans. But one that is vital. Like some music hack said recently, the Charlatans have joined Primal Scream in being an old band band but also compulsive and fresh at the same time. In fact, most of the album sounds like they jumped back in time to The Scream's songs between 'Screamadelica' and 'Give Out But Don't Give Up'. This is not, repeat NOT a bad thing. In fact it is magical at times. The standout track on offer is ...  Read the complete review

In fact, when you think about it, this probably IS the the best album of the Charlatans' carreer. From the outset of 'You're So Pretty', you know that this is a change of direction for the Charlatans. But one that is vital. Like some music hack said recently, the Charlatans have joined Primal Scream in being an old band band but also compulsive and fresh at the same time. In fact, most of the album sounds like they jumped back in time to The Scream's songs between 'Screamadelica' and 'Give Out But Don't Give Up'. This is not, repeat NOT a bad thing. In fact it is magical at times. The standout track on offer is ...  Read the complete review

This is the seventh offering from the Charlies, a band who have withstood the test of time remarkably well, and sound as good today as they always have. This album did surprise me somewhat though. I was expecting a Charlatans album, and I got a Charlatans album, albeit with funny semi-falsetto vocals. It works though, and adds even more depth to songs such 'You're So Pretty - We're So Pretty' (you've heard that one on the advert) and 'If I Fall' one of those songs that makes you feel all fluttery in your tummy, and easily this year's summer song. Just like the album is set to be this year's summer album. ...  Read the complete review