Album Review: Babyshambles – Sequel To The Prequel

Babyshambles are back after a lengthy six years away with their third album ‘Sequel To The Prequel’.

Although they’re one of those bands who can deliver to an army of fans regardless of what they do, because of who they are, whether they’ve adapted to changes in the music world since their hiatus will be revealed in this 12-track LP.

First track ‘Fireman’ – which was actually revealed live some years previously – is a stormy, fast-paced track complete with a killer riff and those celebrated slurred warbles from frontman Pete Doherty. It’s over before you know it, but it arrogantly states that Babyshambles are well and truly back.

However, when second track, ‘Nothing Comes To Nothing’ kicks in, it is somewhat different from the Punk-infused opener. ‘Nothing Comes To Nothing’ explores the hidden soft side to Doherty’s vocals layered within an Indie-Pop track that of all the tracks on the album could find a home on mainstream radio.

‘Picture Me In Hospital’, although easy to assume biographical to Doherty’s life, is in fact a song about bassist Drew McConnell who in time forced Babyshambles out of hibernation. The track itself is lyrically reflective and touching, whilst a Gypsy-Folk backing, including a simple but effective violin line, provides a surprising upbeat pace.

The album does seem to explore many sides of Babyshambles’ personality; romantic, angry, fuelled, lethargic, opinionated – they’re all in there, which makes for an all-round interesting listen.
Almost as if Babyshambles knew to pull it out the bag, they deliver on every track.