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The very idea that The Libertines would release an impressive fourth album in 2024 is something that would have seemed ridiculously over-optimistic, if not completely absurd, twenty years ago… writes John Kearns.
Yet here we are, face to face, with an absolute triumph from a band that sounds confident, deliberate and united.
Pete Doherty, Carl Barat, John Hassall and Gary Powell can be really proud of Everything Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade, an album that manages to combine a good dose of The Libertines' initial arrogance with a more thoughtful and measured approach to their craft. Tracks like “Shiver” and “Songs They Won't Play On The Radio” are poignant and reflective and exemplify the band's newfound coherence, perhaps as much as friends as band members.
Carl Barat explains: “Our first album was born out of panic and disbelief that we were actually allowed to be in a studio; the second was born of total struggle and misery; the third was born from complexity; This one feels like we're all in the same place, at the same speed, and we're really connected.”
Before you start thinking that The Libertines have become “radio friendly” and ironed out the rough patches, have no fear. There are plenty of masterful manic moments on this record to delight those of us who love the Libertines' chaotic belt.
The album takes off with “Run Run Run,” an energetic runaway romp reminiscent of The Clash (no surprise). This was, of course, the first single preview from the album and will now undoubtedly become a live favourite.
“It's about being trapped and trying to escape your depressing life, a bit like the man in Bukowski's 'The Post Office'. The worst thing for The Libertines would be to get stuck in a 'run-run-run' routine, constantly trying to relive our past.” declares Carl. Although I think musically, most Libertines fans would always be very happy for the band to indulge in some more punk throwbacks.
The frenetic, defiant “Be Young” fits that bill, managing to combine furious verses with a beautifully calm chorus, another standout moment and indication that the band still has something to say about a bit of social insubordination. That nonconformist vein would still seem evident but in a more contemplative and passive way.
“Mustangs” and “Night Of The Hunter” also deserve recognition as standout moments on an album that turned out to be an unlikely masterpiece that defines a new era for The Libertines. Of course, the band have endured more than their share of drama and desperation within their ranks, experiencing breakups, breakdowns and break-ins (the famous Carl's flat episode).
The emotional time bombs, tortuous tabloid stories, and burning teddy bears may have been replaced by TikTok dances, ever-growing hat collections, and hotelier duties, but Everything Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade has proven that The Libertines is still the genuine article. Fans will no doubt be excited about this unexpected gem.
Pete Doherty has the last word….
“We are delighted, the ball is in the back of the net and I am happy for the boys! I feel like we've come full circle as a band, and finally now we can add these songs to the set list, because we have some hits on there. Now we opened the hotel and used the studio ourselves and everything went well: more Libertines records? I hope so!”
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