Album Review: Kaiser Chiefs - Start The Revolution Without Me

The latest Kaiser Chiefs album, "Start The Revolution Without Me" is the Leeds based band's fifth album release and contains a majority of songs from last year's "The Future Is Medieval" experimental approach of allowing fans to pick and choose ten tracks of their own favorite songs from a catalog of 20 or so new recordings. While the official UK track listing release of "The Future Is Medieval" was released in June of 2011, It wouldn't be until March 6th of this year to see a North American release of the album with a new title, revamped song order, and an exclusive single, "On The Run". 

"Start The Revolution Without Me" is a wonderful celebration of refreshing indie pop anthems that combine funky drumming and catchy synth jabs with rock guitar embellishments. Every song is a well crafted gem of powerful song writing and instrumentation that includes soaring vocal choruses and melodies that remind me of guitar and piano riffs from the 60s, such as the Beatles-esque "When All Is Quiet", but then turning a corner into a disco from the 80s with the synth based "Heard It Break". 

"Kinda Girl You Are" and "Problem Solved" are driving power pop songs that wouldn't have been out of place coming from the late 70s/early 80s mod revival scenes. "Child Of The Jago" explores a darker, haunting side of Kaiser Chiefs that remind me of Duran Duran and Bauhaus at their quieter moments. Just when you think you might have the Chiefs figured out, they sucker punch you with a galloping twangy beat that's more skiffle than country on "Cousin From The Bronx", while "Things Change" show off their ability to tribute Low-era David Bowie. 

If you haven't noticed by these pics, the Kaiser Chiefs seem to know how to dress themselves very well. In my opinion, rock bands are allowed to wear skinny jeans and if you wear skinny jeans and you don't play music, then you better start learning how to rock out and form bands. It's important to dress like your intended audience and a fitted look is a classic look. I don't rate albums but I would file "Start The Revolution Without Me" in the indie power pop section of UK albums to check out in 2012.


Listen to "When All Is Quiet":

- Mike C.