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THE REVIEW
Right from the first notes of this album, which will later prove to be truly delirious at times, it's clear that the dear old Franz Ferdinand have had a bit of a turnaround: have they gone mad? Who knows! But it's precisely this great feeling of euphoria that makes the record one of the most valid of 2005.
I should mention that compared to its fantastic predecessor, the music is more carefree, more kitsch, less dark, and even more refined in technical terms; in short, FF have really wanted to reinvent themselves. It opens with the "picnic" of "The Fallen," which perhaps sounds this way thanks to the adorable choir parts: a good start, even if it will never match the masterpiece of "Jacqueline" from the previous album. (A similar sound will later be picked up on its B-Side "L. Wells").
The second track, "Do You Want To," in my opinion, represents the pinnacle of their career, a total blast: indie, disco, new wave, all concentrated in a song that will dominate the trendiest parties of the coming years. The best moment? When Franz hit hard with their guitars about halfway through the song.
Following: "This Boy," nice guitar riffs; "Walk Away" enjoyable on first listens, will later turn into an overly pop song; "Evil and a Heathen" perhaps a bit confusing, but also for pure wildness; "Eleanor Put Your Boots On" Beatles-like (as you may have heard a million times) but with significant charm, probably the most chic; in "I'm Your Villain" you should not underestimate the ending in particular (after minute 2.50); proceeding with the hammering title-track and the very sweet "Fade Together" and finally another gem, "Outsiders," dark, a sort of electro-indie-disco.
13 tracks to try new indie experiments where the established Franz Ferdinand sound still remains, to delight in the surprising voice of Alex Kapranos and to recharge in three-quarters of an hour.
NB: If you are curious to hear the voice of guitarist Nick McCarthy, try the quirky and melancholic "Jeremy Fraser" (The Fallen EP).
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Summary by Bot
Franz Ferdinand's 2005 album 'You Could Have It So Much Better' marks a significant stylistic shift towards a more carefree and polished sound. Featuring a mix of indie, disco, and new wave, the album delivers memorable tracks like 'Do You Want To' and 'Outsiders.' The band balances experimentation with their signature indie style, highlighted by Alex Kapranos' voice and distinctive guitar riffs. Overall, it's a euphoric and valid follow-up to their debut.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand are a Scottish indie rock band formed in Glasgow, known for rhythm-driven, danceable post-punk revival and breakout songs like “Take Me Out.”18 Reviews
Other reviews
By easycure
Franz Ferdinand do not seem to acknowledge the existence of the concept of originality; hence, further proof of their mediocrity.
I listen to the first track 'The Fallen' straight through and just don’t understand what’s even remotely appreciable about it; lackluster melody, repetitive, soulless wholesale pop.
By Alberto Giordano
A magnificent work that does not disappoint the expectations of those who had already appreciated their first work.
Franz Ferdinand succeed in amusing and making people cry like the Beatles did 30 years ago, with the same weapons.
By l.ascari
"If you feel like listening to some good music and dancing like ladies, then 'You Could Have It So Much Better' is the right album."
I highly recommend this album!!!! Rock’n’Roll!!!!!!!!!!
