After their 2011 debut, Hunger, Frankie And The Heartstrings take their brand of bright indie-pop a bit further in The Days Run Away.
With former Suede guitarist turned producer, Bernard Butler at the helm, there is no shortage of slick guitar riffs across most of the record’s 11 tracks.
“I Still Follow You” packs a punch as an opener, with strong snares and melodic guitar and keyboard lines. It carries a certain youthful enthusiasm, not shying away from “na – na –nas” and cheerful harmonies in the chorus.
This charming exuberance works well on the more upbeat tunes on this album. “That Girl, That Scene” showcases their rock ‘n’ roll influences, while jangly guitars are alive and well on “She Will Say Goodbye”.
Their first collaboration with Butler on single, “Everybody Looks Better (In The Right Light)“ is a fun highlight, from the playful basslines in the intro to the catchy hooks reminiscent of Grease’s “Summer Nights”.
Frankie Francis’ baritone is full of character and his delivery is passionately emotive. It can be a bit overpowering on the slower songs in this record, such as the ballad “Losing A Friend”. The brooding theme of “The First Boy”, perhaps the weakest song, becomes irksome after a few listens.
The closing number, a duet with Sarah Hall from Let’s Buy Happiness, “Light That Breaks” is sweet and serene, a move away from the band’s signature sounds.
It will be interesting to see what sounds the quintet might explore in their further releases.
