Album Review

We Are Scientists – Barbara

• 1st Jun 2010

For a band so naturally funny they were in danger of being forgotten as musicians, ‘Barbara’ arrives at just the right time to remind everyone why they fell in love with We Are Scientists in the first place.

Now on their own record label, Masterswan Recordings, and after a comedy mini-series “Steve Wants His Money” for MTV, the festival darlings return with a 10 song record packed with sing-a-long choruses and big hooks.

Combining the up-tempo stylings of their first record with the reserved elegance of their second, ‘Barbara’ whistles by in just over 30 minutes of pop-rock perfection. Recruiting Andy Burrows for drumming duties has added a spine to the songs missing since fan favourite, Michael Tapper’s departure after ‘With Love and Squalor’.

“Nice Guys”, the second single is akin to a long lost The Lemonheads song and “Rules Don’t Stop” has a suitably murky bass throughout, adding dark overtones to an otherwise fun song.

“Break It Up” could have sat comfortably on their first album, whilst “Jack and Ginger” complete with electronic bleeps will no doubt keep festival audiences in good voice this summer. “Pittsburgh” slows proceedings down with a wistful vibe and “You Should Learn” with its busy background rhythm section is vintage W.A.S.

With half of the ten new songs on offer coming in at under 3 minutes, ‘Barbara’ is short and to the point, which given the Scientists flair for witty one liners, was the intention all along.