Reviews (page 5 of 8)
-idk it’s definitely not bad. just doesn’t really… go anywhere or do anything? the sound is a bit hard to categorize and so is the overall purpose and direction of the album -had some decent songs at the beginning but honestly after that idk what to say -Favorites are Zuton Fever and You Will You Won’t
it wasnt me
Dreadful album. Not a single good idea or a tune worth adding to any playlist in the whole record.
I already knew the album inside out, word for word. The tunes are catchy, the mood generally uplifting but with a couple of slower tracks along the way. Enjoyed the harmonies and a little slice of retro Top track: You will You won't
Catchy
I had forgotten all about the zutons, this is a decent enough album, but is one of only 1001 you should listen to. Probably not.
Good fun retro rock. Not sure I’ll go back to it often but damn I enjoyed it
An interesting listen, plenty of variety. 'Nice' probably covers it but surprised it's in the 1001 albums we must hear.
i kinda dislike the term "landfill indie" because i think it has the connotation that so much of 2000s indie music is garbage. but this website has given me a new interpretation. it's called that because there's enough of it to fill a landfill. and so, so goddamn much of it is represented on this list. this isn't a particularly good example at all. every interesting idea is smothered under a blanket. i didn't need to hear this before i die, and i think i would stand by that even if British 2000s indie rock was my favorite genre. also the cover art of their newest album is ai LMAO. deserves to be one of the 1001? nope.
I have no idea why this album is on the list. I've never heard of The Zutons, and I still don't know what a Zuton even is or who killed them... but I think I love them. Like, genuinely, this is a 4.9/5 of an album, and the ONLY reason it isn't a 5 is because I didn't always love every song. But, the ones I did like, I absolutely L O V E D, and it's more than a few. "Zuton Fever" "Pressure Point" "You Will You Won't", "Havana Gang Brawl", "Dirty Dancehall" and "Don't Ever Think (Too Much)" are all phenomenal songs. The singer's voice is oddly reminiscent of someone else and I just can't for the life of me place who it is, but clearly I like them as well. I haven't been doing this a lot, but I'm actively going to seek out more of this band's music and hope it's comparable to this album, because this might have surprised me more than anything else I've listened to so far up to this point. This is a strong contender for moving up to 5 stars if I do a rebalancing of my list. Great job Zutons, you've gained a fan.
There’s nothing bad about this, but it has no ambition at all so that’s not really impressive.
3 songs in, not finishing. Can’t figure out for the life of me how some of these albums make this list.
Another band I haven't heard before. They are quite good, remind me of the White Stripes with a bit of rockabilly mixed in. I enjoyed the listen.
Country of origin UK? ✅ One obscure single that some people may know but most likely don’t? ✅ Sold less than 600k albums? ✅ Congratulations! You have qualified as an essential album that people simply must hear before they die. Don’t get me wrong, I actually did enjoy this album, it’s decent. But to pick this over MF Doom, Tool, Heart, Bill Withers, Chuck Berry, Stone Temple Pilots, Blink 182, Weezer, Stevie Ray Vaughan, They Might Be Giants… I could go on… seems crazy.
This was an ok album another brit-rock that was neither bad nor amazing, but I didn't hate it!
It’s fine, nothing to write home about. I don’t think I’ll ever listen to this again, it was just kind of bland pop rock. Plus one for horns.
Really enjoyed this. Lightly ska/folk-inflected indie rock with enough variety to keep it interesting throughout.
8/10
Ondanks de lyrics vond ik dit een erg leuk album voor een gezellige zonnige dag. Ik heb echt de helft van dit album aan mn playlist toegevoegd
I forgot about this record WHILE IT WAS PLAYING. That's how unmemorable it is.
paar zeer goeie songs...
interesting and fun album.
I kinda dig this. Probably never listen again but it’s alright.
Couple of goodies.
Funny to hear an MVP Baseball 2005 song (Pressure Point) on this list of greatest albums. I think it’s a fun pinky record but I really didn’t think was that great— not bad
This was fine. I don’t really understand Britains obsession with ska/ska-adjacent music tbh. I didn’t dislike this album, but it struck me as something I’d put on once when it first released and then never listen to again. Fun band name/album artwork though. Don’t really understand why it’s on the list.
Pretty good sound. This is the type of album I’d probably like more and more after multiple listens.
Good varied sound that has all sorts of elements that don’t come out without multiple listenings. Nothing generic about this one.
Has some nice moments, but extremely forgettable overall.
A poor man's Modest Mouse. That seems harsh, but it's got that same playful earworm sound, but not quite as elevated. Light, digestible, but ultimately forgettable.
Pretty good
I have no idea how to describe this album. It's weird.
IDK, wasn't me. Low 4, it's fun, it's experimentative, but it should be way more. There's some filler.
I might have liked this album for about a month in 2004. But someone would have had to burn it for me. I wouldn't have spent money on it. There's no great, or even better than good, song on here to hook you. It also lacks cohesion.
о, вы из Англии? похуй что играете, вы приняты!
It’s not bad and I can vibe to it. But did I need to hear it? It’s not a standout compared to the other records on here.
This was fine, but I don't really understand why it made the list? I have to say, I'd never listen to this one again...
Great sac moment
I used to love this album - it's faded into a mid-ground one for me as I age.
We're weird!
I will be honest, I came to this ready to slate it. And I was right to. I have just come off listening to Elton John's Madman Across the Water and the Zutons are comparatively a baffling inclusion on this list. I remember this album being released and being certain that they would sink without trace. Certainly they deserve to. As it is, they are not quite the indie soft rock I was expecting, a couple of interesting instruments, like the mouth harp and saxophone, and You Will You Won't was a bit of an earworm. There's nothing fundamentally wrong with this, but overall it's the very example of forgettable and a dud choice for the list, although I will concede that it's a very good example of the landfill indie which was so popular in the early 2000s.
This was astonishingly unmemorable. Never heard of them before and will likely never hear of them again but this bears a whiff off DEI for white guys playing guitar-based music in the 21st Century.
Surprised it made list. Seems like better albums in this genre. Not bad per se, but nothing special. Don’t see myself revisiting
Most songs on here have something to really love, an enjoyable bass line, good drumming or a funky moment with the sax. That being said, most songs also have something I actively dislike, a weird chorus or strange word choices. In the end an oddly enjoyable but middling experience, I really feel like this could have been amazing but falls just short time and time again.
4.3 - Man I did not know I knew this album so much. It's aged really well imo. Great album
I had this on CD. It was a different time. A lot of this album is 2000s TV advert music. Songs like Pressure Point and You Will You Won't which were definitely radio played singles are incredibly annoying. Confusion is similar but feels more respectable as a song. I don't remember getting much replay value out of most of the other tracks in the middle of the album, but they're definitely less annoying - Railroad is pretty good. Remember Me feels like the standout track to me. This was definitely also an indie radio hit. I like it still I think, but I can't really imagine actively choosing to listen to it now. I don't really know how I feel about this overall. It's not good, but there's some substance, there's different ideas, there's catchy songs. Fave Tracks: Zuton Fever, Railroad, Remember Me 2.8/5
These are the albums that I love most in this project. Bands that I have never heard before, and that are a little outside of the mainstream. I greatly enjoyed it!
Really enjoyed these songs, and I think that they came out really strong. I definitely like the higher energy ones more, and thought they slowed down a bit in the middle and towards the end. Still, a great album that I'm glad I found through this.
This is bouncy and solid overall,, with the diverse (but not too) sounds grows on one across the record. Best cuts: "Remember Me" and "Don't Think Too Much." One gets vibes neo-Kinks vibes and the Las too. Worth knowing. Wonder why one hasn't heard more of them.
Quite good. I’d really love to give this a 3.5. Never heard of this band, but it’s very unique and really listenable. I’m really kind of struggling with my rating system at the moment, because 3 is “fine” and 4 is “really good,” but there are loads of albums that are just good, you know? So if 3 is a baseline rating of albums I merely don’t dislike, and 4 is the rating for albums that I *really* like, then where do I go with albums like this, where I’d be more than happy to listen to it again, but I more than likely won’t seek it out?
I went into this one expecting the worst, but it turned out just fine. It’s inoffensive and sometimes pretty fun to listen to. I doubt I’ll ever go back to it, but no complaints on hearing this at least once.
Who ate the croutons? Who has the coupons? Where's my Gray Poupon?
Never had heard of this before, but I really enjoyed this album. Great folk punk vibes!
Had a fun time listening to this one, style was right up my alley. I seem to remember hearing of the title of this album although no tracks sounded familiar. 4/5 I’ll be checking into more of their discography
A great debut from a fun live band … I liked it, but not sure it’s stood the time test. A solid 3 from me.
Interesting album.
Couldn’t quite crack if this was earnest or ironic. Not that it ultimately mattered but it seemed to veer from rock to novelty at the drop of a hat. 2.5/5
83% Best: Zuton Fever; Pressure Point; You Will You Won't; Dirty Dancehall Must-Hear? Sure
Fine but forgettable
Ok, I unexpectedly really liked this album Closer to 5 than 4
This was fun and pretty enjoyable.
I had missed these guys, but this album is definitely up there with other early 2000's sleaze rock. They deserve to be in the conversation with bands like The Strokes, Franz Ferdinand, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.
Very fun sounding and some great production on the first half but it also feels thematically and lyrically pretty shallow.
Couple of great iconic songs from the 2000’s! Other than that, nothing special for me
Not bad, not something I plan to ever listen to again
I like this more than I expected. There's nothing innovative in it but it has a real charm in how it's done.
Stray Cats vibe
Rock-a-Billy vibe
Day476 - didn’t think i would like it but i did. probably will forget it soon
Could the Zutons have been killed… if they never lived in the first place?
This actually feels fresh to me, I liked it
This is objectively solid with some catchy melodies and tight compositions, but the band sounds like they were brewed in a vat to make songs for car commercials and that kinda bothers me. Best song: Pressure Point
Reminds me of the Violent Femmes, just not as good.
I was fully prepared not to like this but I can’t help but loving it honestly.
Perfectly fine but I could have died never hearing this and I won't remember that I've listened to it this time next week
Pretty good. Lyrics were a bit too boring/predictable.
Need to listen to them more
sec gespielter, einfacher rock der zum mitwippen anregt. nichts besonderes, aber auch nichts falsch!
Werde nicht richtig warm mit dem Verschnitt von was auch immer.
2.5
Quite upbeat indie vibe. English band but with more of an American vibe to it.. maybe English indie tends to be more depressing
Listens: 1.5 Standout tracks: Zuton Fever Musically, this album is all over the place. Sometimes it sounds like the Strokes or Arctic Monkeys, sometimes it sounds slightly country. The trumpets or.horn instruments remind me of Cake. After listening to Zuton Fever I was kind of excited that the rest of the album would have that same level of energy but it doesn't quite land for some of the songs. The album is ok. I might listen to it again in the future.
Pressure Point is a great song (mvp baseball '05 anyone?) but I don't understand why this album needs to be on the list
Fun album, hints at several other styles of music I enjoy. Giving it a 4 for future reference.
I liked this album quite a bit, especially how varied it is in styles. It's a good early 00s folk/garage rock album, one of the more interesting ones from the early years of the decade. It works good as an album, though no songs really stands out and it is not particularly great album either. It is close to 4 stars but I will stick to 3.
Correct et honnête rock indie, rien à redire et rien à rajouter
This one was really fun. A little dated but in a way that holds up better than other albums of similar style at the time.
It's alright, I guess
3.5
Nostalgia and I've not heard it in ages. Zuton Fever, Pressure Point... Loved it.
Dreadful.
i found this kind of annoying and unimportant
the zzzutons really aren't doing it for me. total snoozzzefest. who killed them? i'm starting to think they did it to themselves... favorites: zuton fever, you will you won't
Standard early 2000s indie Rock. Not bad but also not very interesting.
How this album has escaped me is beyond me. Garage/Psych rock. Their influences are worn on their sleeve and done to great effect. The record is well done, I feel like The Zutons would be amazing to see live. I don't really get the comparisons to The Coral, but I was not a fan of them back in the day so I am biased.
Not bad, kind of cool; I liked the first track and was optimistic for the rest, but it got repetitive and a little annoying. Favorite: Zuton Fever
A slice of great songwriting. In a similar vein to The Coral - not in that they are both Liverpool - but twisting what can be done with a guitar band. Great harmonies, the sax, and storytelling lyrics
The Zutons? This album just about did me in.
Listened to one track, that was enough.
Sad Saxophone Honks 😔
Honestly really good
Truly awful. Again I find myself asking why this would ever be an album you simply have to hear before you die?
Better than expected, pop-rock, a tight band, accessible, if not catchy music, and ironic humor.
3.5/5
I really liked this one and from a band I have never heard of. I got a lot of Black Keys vibes (who I also like). Zuton Fever had me questioning if it was a Black Keys song, but it wasn't but still good. I also like You Will You Won't, Confusion, and Nightmare Part II. Railroad was a different vibe but still fun. It had older rock vibes with enough newer alt rock indie fun to make it enjoyable and fresher. There were also a lot of extra instruments worked in to make the sound rock but with a little difference.
I love me some catchy, upbeat sax rock. It's cool that they have a few slower songs on here to mix things up but I like the more upbeat songs better. That Railroad Song is a skip. I don't believe he ever worked a day on the railroad in his life. I can't not hear Havana Gang Brawl as URBANA Gang Brawl.
This sounds like almost every Rock band circa 2002-2006. The songs are varied and relatively interesting, but there is nothing super special going on here.
This was pleasant to my ears and rather catchy, and I appreciate the variety in songs and the different reflections on life they address in their lyrics. I was feeling like it lacked a little "heart" after the first listen, but I gave it a second spin through, and it really grew on me. Favorite tune was Dirty Dancehall. Runner-up goes to Moons and Horror Shows. And that sax in Confusion, swoon. Surprisingly lovely new discovery!
I really liked this back in the day but I don’t know anymore. I’m going to give it a 3.
## In-Depth Review of *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* by The Zutons Released on April 19, 2004, *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* is the debut album of Liverpool-based indie rock band The Zutons. Produced by Ian Broudie, the album blends a variety of musical influences, showcasing the band’s unique sound. Below is a detailed analysis of the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, along with its strengths and weaknesses. --- ### **Lyrics** The lyrics on *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* are a mix of playful storytelling and introspective musings. Dave McCabe’s songwriting often leans toward quirky narratives and vivid imagery. Tracks like "Havana Gang Brawl" paint cinematic pictures of turf wars, while "Dirty Dancehall" delves into the chaos and allure of nightlife. On the more introspective side, songs like "Confusion" explore themes of uncertainty and emotional turmoil. McCabe’s lyrical style is conversational yet poetic, often blending humor with melancholy. For example, "Not a Lot to Do" captures the ennui of small-town life with sharp wit. However, some critics argue that the lyrics occasionally lack depth. While the narratives are engaging, they sometimes feel superficial or overly reliant on quirky charm rather than profound insight[3]. --- ### **Music** The music is where *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* truly shines. The album is a melting pot of genres, drawing from funk, soul, rock, and even ska. Tracks like "Pressure Point" feature punchy rhythms and infectious hooks, while "Zuton Fever" incorporates surf-rock-inspired guitar riffs reminiscent of Dick Dale[3]. Abi Harding’s saxophone work adds a distinctive layer to the band’s sound. Her contributions elevate tracks like "Remember Me," giving them a jazzy flair that sets The Zutons apart from their contemporaries. The interplay between saxophone and guitar creates a dynamic texture throughout the album. Despite its eclecticism, some critics feel that the album occasionally struggles to balance its influences cohesively. Certain tracks can feel derivative, borrowing heavily from bands like Talking Heads and Sly & the Family Stone without fully transcending those inspirations[3]. --- ### **Production** The album was produced by Ian Broudie (known for his work with The Lightning Seeds) and recorded at RAK Studios in London and Parr Street Studios in Liverpool[1][4]. Broudie’s production emphasizes clarity and energy, allowing each instrument to shine without overwhelming the mix. Tracks like "You Will You Won’t" showcase Broudie’s knack for creating crisp, radio-friendly arrangements. Meanwhile, songs such as "Confusion" benefit from more atmospheric production choices that enhance their emotional weight. However, some critics argue that the production occasionally feels too polished for an album rooted in raw energy and eclecticism. This slickness can dilute some of the band’s more chaotic or experimental tendencies[3]. --- ### **Themes** Thematically, *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* explores a range of topics: - **Urban Life**: Songs like "Dirty Dancehall" and "Havana Gang Brawl" delve into the grit and glamour of city living. - **Isolation**: Tracks such as "Not a Lot to Do" reflect on feelings of boredom and disconnection. - **Nostalgia**: Several songs evoke a sense of longing for simpler times or lost innocence. While these themes are compelling, they are often presented through a lens of whimsy rather than deep introspection. This approach makes the album accessible but may leave listeners craving more emotional depth. --- ### **Influence** As part of Liverpool's vibrant indie scene in the early 2000s, The Zutons were often compared to their labelmates The Coral. However, their use of saxophone and genre-blending set them apart. *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* received critical acclaim upon release and was nominated for the Mercury Prize[1][4]. It also achieved commercial success, peaking at number six on the UK Albums Chart and earning double platinum certification by 2013[1][4]. The album’s influence is evident in its inclusion in *1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die*. It helped pave the way for other indie bands to experiment with unconventional instrumentation and genre fusion. --- ### **Pros** 1. **Eclectic Sound**: The album’s blend of funk, soul, rock, and ska creates a unique listening experience. 2. **Strong Musicianship**: Abi Harding’s saxophone work is a standout feature that adds depth to the arrangements. 3. **Catchy Hooks**: Tracks like "Pressure Point" are irresistibly infectious. 4. **Playful Lyrics**: McCabe’s storytelling brings humor and personality to the songs. 5. **Energetic Production**: Ian Broudie ensures that every instrument shines. --- ### **Cons** 1. **Lack of Cohesion**: The genre-blending can sometimes feel disjointed. 2. **Derivative Moments**: Certain tracks borrow heavily from influences without fully innovating. 3. **Superficial Lyrics**: While entertaining, some songs lack emotional or thematic depth. 4. **Overly Polished Production**: The slickness occasionally undermines the raw energy of the band. --- ### **Conclusion** *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* is an ambitious debut that showcases The Zutons’ talent for crafting eclectic and energetic music. While it has its flaws—such as occasional derivative tendencies and superficial lyrics—it remains an engaging listen filled with memorable hooks and inventive arrangements. The album’s unique blend of genres and use of saxophone have left a lasting impact on indie rock. Despite its imperfections, *Who Killed...... The Zutons?* deserves its place as one of the standout albums of the early 2000s indie scene.
Une pop multi-instrumentiste qui prend des accents rétro sans pécher par excès.
Very of its time
I think the best the Zutons gave us will always be the original Valerie. And even then it's better when Amy sings it.
Matig garage album. Hoort hier echt wel niet thuis. 2.4
Idc I liked that
“Who Killed …… The Zutons?” Who really fucking cares?
Another UK-centric entry. Bands like Franz Ferdinand did it better in that era. Enjoyable enough, but not outstanding, 3*
This is #day222 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... the band’s name and the album title sound like a joke to me. The Zutons… who the fuck are The Zutons? How did they get here? After I brief research, I found out that The Coral, who I rated a 1 a while ago, are label mates with them. Oh well... This isn’t my cup of tea at all. In fact, I’d rather have coffee. It's a 1 out of 5. Looking forward to #day223.
Quite nice! For me nota a 4 to good for a 3. Difficult to decide but at the end I give it a 3.
A little smug and cheeky for me, but I know a lot of people like that.
Could have been worse
(If) I Did It
# Album Name: Who killed the Zutons? # Artist: The Zutons # Rating: 4/5 # Comments: Probably doesnt deserve to be on the list imo. But its a very enjoyable album. # Top Tunes: Z fever / you will you wont / pressure point / confusion / nightmare 2 / remember me # Would I listen to it again? Yes
Quirky and with a sense of humour. I remember when this came out ...same sort of time as The Kooks.. a period where this music fit in really well. Not my favourite but enjoyed it!
Some well crafted songs. I don't consider this essential, but I have no beef with The Zutons.
хороший классический инди рок начала нулевых
This album is a lot better than I thought it was going to be. Still some songs that don't do much, but there's so well recorded, well played, catchy music here. I especially love when they pull the sax out. Surprisingly high 4 on this one
Zuton Fever 3.4 Pressure Point 3.5 You Will You Won't 3.4 Confusion 3 Havana Gang Brawl 3.2 Railroad 3.4 Long Time Coming 3.2 Nightmare Part II 3.3 Not a Lot to Do 3.3 Remember Me 3.4 Dirty Dancehall 3.5 Moons and Horror Shows 3.3 Score: 3.325
This was entertaining. I enjoyed the saxophone parts throughout.
One of the survivors from the great indie landfill binfire, this is a cut above the Kooks et al. You'll recognise at least a couple of the songs if you're British and around in the early noughties. Classic three stars. But probs not one of the 1001 best albums.
I quite liked it, but didn't feel part of it, if ya get me. I think if I'd seen them live, I'd have had a great time, but listening in my headphones I felt slightly detached and like I wasn't in the gang. Objectively, it's very good.
This is dumb
2.75
I don't know how to describe - it was almost good? I think the sound was promising but the concept and lyrics felt somewhat gimmicky. It didn't really grab me but it didn't offend me either.
This was a nice little throwback! I wasn't that into the Zutons but this was fun enough to listen to.
I really love this album. I remember buying it as a kid when it came out simply because the Zutons sounded funny and the album cover and title was really intriguing. I think it's an absolutely belter, really varied, some great lyrics and sound. It's a shame they faded away, their next album wasn't so good. But we did see they are Glastonbury last year and they were great!
I remember the first 3 tracks quite well but simultaneously I remember these songs being better. Especially the first two songs. Nightmare part II is pretty cool though, but generally they lack the ‘wow’ factor needed 3/5
Parts of the sound reminded me of The Flobots. A bit of a peppy album, a fun but otherwise kinda of generic album to me. 3.5
Very average
It’s radio-bothering noughties indie dross really. The sort of thing you’d grab at the supermarket while buying the proverbial meat and potatoes, but I confess a soft spot for scouse bands with psychedelia running through their veins and influences up and down their sleeves. Two.
Weirdly it sounds really nostalgic, you can definitely hear like a 70s vibe with this album considering its a naughties record. I actually didn't hate it! A few stand outs for me: - You Will You Won't - Havana Gang Brawl (this track crescendo so good ugh!!) - Nightmare Pt II I might listen to it again as background noise for it is a cohesive album - it sounds good. Put together. Interesting!
Quite forgettable
Of course this is not per se a bad album. And it is a pleasant, listenable album for sure. But an essential one in the history of pop music? I don't really think so. If you have been of a certain age in 2004 when it came out, you might have a Zutons-formed dent in your musical socialisation. But since they offer nothing that hasn't done been before, while and after they did it, this record would have to be full of exceptional songs or musical performances to merit it anything than a general "ok" rating. Sadly neither the songs nor their performance offer such outstanding qualities and we have a classic example of mid-quality that should not be part of this list in the first place. A record for the private playlist/collection of anyone who likes to entertain this type of indie rock comfort sound but nowhere near a record for the history books.
Not really my style. I would give it an extra half star if I could though
I’d forgotten about The Zutons. I knew the singles from this album but had never listened to this. I’m surprised - I really enjoyed it! They’re a band whose songs I’ve enjoyed on the radio but I’ve never investigated further. Downloaded this one!
ekki leiðinlegt og skemmtilegar melódíur hér og þar. svipar til coral sem mér finnst reyndar skemmtilegra. veit ekki hvort ég þurfi meira, held ekki og fær því...
Not terrible. Not great. Another 3. Prob says as much about my mindset as it does this album. It was ok. I didn’t hate listening to it. That is all.
A good album. I like most songs. But I also had a feeling that some singles sound a bit too familiar? Confusion ~= sitting on the dock of the bay? But still a nice album.
I first came across this band by means of the song Valerie as covered by Amy Winehouse (which is fantastic btw). The Zutons performed the original and I listened to another album of their’s which I remember enjoying a fair bit. This album has a lot of components I like, and definitely a few songs but it also felt like they were still trying to find their sound. I also disliked a lot of components and songs. Miss me entirely with “Zuton Fever”. Unless there is some double meaning I am missing I think that’s an unfortunate and misguided way to start an album. Had I not already known this band a little bit that would’ve soured me going in pretty heavily. Mixed bag for sure with this one. Ups and downs even out at a 3. Intrigued, but a little disappointed. Felt like it was missing some direction.
in the wikipedia excerpt, it talks about this album being a form of 'dad-rock'. I didn't really get that sense, it struck me as a more indie-esque album than like old school rock n roll. overall, pleasant to listen to, but wouldn't seek it out again.
More than half of the songs were shockingly good for a band that I’ve never heard of. Love the style - upbeat and catchy, sort of retro. But there is also a lot of variety and creativity. Honesty nothing bad to say about it. Really impressive.
Fine. Not a lot to say about it. Is this the band Amy Winehouse sampled? Either way, her version is better.
Only knew Pressure Point coming in, because, as previously mentioned in the group chat, it is featured on what many consider to be the greatest traditional sports video game soundtrack of all time, MVP Baseball 2005 (is that better for y'all extreme sports fanatics?). Was pleasantly surprised by the variation on this album, it felt like each song could have just as easily been placed in a different genre or decade and it would have done just fine. I'm honestly more surprised that this album is not more popular in mainstream culture. Will be coming back to it and I hope we have more Zutons albums in the future.
A solid album that was pleasant to listen to. Not a whole lot to say about it though. I'm not entirely sure why it's on this list. Maybe if it came out in the 70's or was more influential, but for 2004, it feels like standard dad rock.
Killed but not dead enough
Who?
The Zutons?
I respect whoever's still doing blues rock in the year of our lord 2004. This album is very alternative rock as well though, got some fancy guitar sounds. I t goes straight grab my attention so I'd like to say it is at least not bad. Better than many of their predecessor even. I think this is how blues rock should progress in my mind, it's a fun experience listening to this album. Some melody lines sure sounds familiar but the overall arrangements and instrumental tones and effects are fresh, I think they managed to find the balence between old and new, I very much appreciate this. a solid 3.5/5 but no higher. The late half is surly not as enjoyable as the first part.
Really nice surprise this one. Didn't realise they were this bluesy
This reminds me a lot of the White Stripes in some ways, especially in the first few songs. It is also much different, what with use of horns and such--stuff that departs from your average rock trio. It's pretty good, from an era that I don't know much about and mostly hate the rock I do know about, at least for the first half. It gets a little on the cheesy side on the B-side of the album. Not sure how well the country crooner elements work, for example, in the last track.
Pretty generic… not sure why this is one of the albums I must listen to before I die
Was alright
This was a fun album. I'm not sure how significant it is, but it's pleasant dad rock for us dads that refuse to admit we're not cool and while away our days telling everyone how great Steeley Dan is 3/5
If only the world recognised the majority of their songs are even better than Valarie.
This is about as mid as I remember them being at the time. Not terrible, but also not essential listening in any way. I think it was Amy Winehouse who killed the Zutons, when she did a much better version of their best song!
First reaction to seeing this album come up was it shouldn't be on the list. I remember it having its brief moment, but doubt I ever listened to it past 2004 and the Zutons are probably better remembered for Any Winehouse's cover of Valerie than their own releases. However, this was an enjoyable listen with some great singles and not much filler. Still not sure it's a "must hear", but pretty decent nonetheless.
Solid. Nothing stood out but didn't dislike any of it
Seems like Jack White might have been influenced by these guys
Wasn’t expecting to like this as much as I did. Really, REALLY great stuff. 4.5/5
I'm diggin it. Think I've heard pressure point before somewhere... Maybe baby driver. Sounds like a baby driver song.
The zutons are not dead. The zutons are fun. Everyone like the zutons.
Completely forgettable
3.5/5
Fine? Pressure point was good and I didn’t know they made the original Valerie that’s cool
3.0 What an absolute mid album. I have zero feelings either way to this. One of those bands/albums that I purposefully ignored and have zero regrets in doing so. Bland 00's garage/folk indie - see the Coral, the Subways, etc.
Mid-2000s British indie rock that seems to merge into one vaguely upbeat, uninteresting sound after the clear stand-out in Pressure Point. There’s a general nice guitar sound, but coupled with uninteresting vocals, lyrics and instrumentation, this doesn’t (and I hate saying this) go anywhere, other than into one ear and out the other. I think I can do without the vast majority of mid-2000s British indie rock, then. America was doing it far, far, better at the same time, anyway.
I thought I had Zuton Fever during the Falklands War. It wasn’t. It was just a bad cold! Still, got me out of there and back in the studio where our real battles were! 3.0
Nothing much to say really.
I really like this, it sounds...fresh and new while still sounding retro and cool. That's quite a feat. It's fun without being gimmicky.
This is one of the few pleasant surprises in the 400+ alvums I have listened to from thus list this far. I really expected psychedellic expirimental noise. But it's actually gritty, energetic guitar driven rock that you can't help but enjoy. Have now gone through most of their catalog. Nobody killed the Zutons. Their rocking and keeping it real!
Haven't listened to this in twenty years, and I think I like it more now than I did then. Singer's voice works well for me, I like the sax.
Some OK moments, but the whole thing doesn’t really cut the mustard.
This was a fun listen. Different and catchy. Consider them added. Very funky and poppy, slow and upbeat.
I enjoyed this album.
this slays 4/5
Okay album. I have nothing good nor bad to say about it.
They probably think they were born in the wrong generation, but they would have been mediocre then too. They need a hit to drive this to a 3 for me.
light, insubstantial, inessential
Dire
Great post punk pop!.
For what it's worth, the official list this site is based off has expunged this album from your required listening. So, yes, you can die without having listened to this album, but give it a spin anyway because it has some fun tracks that offer a good look at what the modern alternative landscape was in the early 00s. The biggest surprise I had after pulling up this album was finding out these guys are still active! Not just that, but only last year did they return the gesture of covering one of Amy Winehouse's songs ("Back to Black") after she had a huge hit with the Mark Ronson produced "Valerie" nearly 20 years prior. Overall, Who Killed The Zutons is a fun bouncy record that came in the early days of the garage rock revival, but decidedly more polished than a lot of the lofi recordings of other bands you'd find on the same radio lists. Listen to: Pressure Point, Nightmare Part II, Not A Lot To Do, You Will You Won't
February 1, 2025 HL: "Don't Ever Think (Too Much)", "Railroad", "Confusion", "You Will You Won't" Oh, to be a "The" band in the early 2000s... Chalk it up to burnout (this is album 1035/1089), but I was a little cold on this album despite it objectively being solid- and containing much of what I like in rock music (loads of energy, 70s throwbacks, tasteful sax). For some reason the slower songs (e.g. "Railroad") clicked with me easier today
Lot of difference in the music 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one a lot actually! I was no all ears to be honest but i will give this album another listens for sure! would go with a (3.5/5.0)
Whoever did...... Thank you for your service
The saxophone is a fun touch for this band. Funky British rock from 2004 with a good edge. Good stuff
I favorited some songs. Vibe somewhere between Vampire Weekend and Deer Tick. Enjoyable.
Another record that should have have been produced, nevertheless on this list.
Intelligent Rock
Honestly - this was pretty awesome. I wasn't reeeeeally into the first track but Pressure point on was really great. Turns out I knew Pressure point already from MVP Baseball 05'. But definitely never a band I looked into when i was 13. Front to back really dope. The vinyl pressing for this is rare as hell apparently - $200 a pop
Another album that made the list solely because it's British, but this one is actually pretty good. I enjoyed the listen quite a bit. Pressure Point was the standout track for me.
I...really liked this. Have never heard of this band and was thinking I was just going to suffer though but listened to it three times in a row! Will be back for the Zutons!
I had no idea what this was going to be but actually really enjoyed it
Enjoyed this!
Solid mid range indie album
Kinda interesting, another one i didn't finish but i would go back to it to finish the whole thing
The selection of records chosen because of the UK bias has yet to really yield anything surprisingly good for me. It’s either been offensively bad or bland in some cases, or rather average in others. This album fits better in that latter group. It seems The Zutons are best known for their song Valerie. Famously because it was covered by Amy Winehouse. The term indie rock is actually quite fitting for this. Because I can’t think of anything more unique to describe this. As bland as the genre “indie rock” really is, this record isn’t anything special. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The worst bits of this are probably the more alternative rock based stuff. They are trying to do their best impression of the White Stripes or The Strokes. And compared to most of the revivalist garage rock I’ve heard, it’s not nearly as good. The best cuts are actually the softer, more acoustic ones. They are the ones where the singer’s voice really gets to flourish. I was sort of flipping back and forth throughout the whole listen as to whether I actually enjoyed this. And in the end, I think it’s just alright. There really isn’t anything here I would come back, or that blew me away. But I don’t think it’s a terrible record. Rating: 6/10
It’s a nice enough album but the songs are quite vapid and forgettable. It was like an album of The Coral b-sides
Pretty good
Refreshingly catchy and delightful. Sure a bit derivative and annoying at times but all in all a great time
Somehow these guys made a saxophone out of place the whole album. It had the makings of something pretty solid but kinda felt like it fell flat. Poor drumming, too, though I did like the singing. Who killed the Zutons? Well... themselves. 5/10.
A technically well engineered and produced album. I enjoyed the track "You Will You Won't". While it is a respectable album, I am not convinced that its impact is such that anyone truly needs to hear this album before they die. Feels sort of like a favor for someone they know.
This was a delight. I had the cd when it was current and had forgotten about it entirely. A couple of spins shows that it has held up well. The song craft, coupled with the up beat nature makes this a really pleasing listen. The range of musical influences, layers and tempo really drag this along and i found it colourful and warm.
NICE BASS, I like confusion the most so far, especially the bass in the intro. The ending of Havana gang brawl is pretty cool. Railroad has cool bass. Overall, a fun listen.
this was good, really liked nightmare pt 2. thought the album would tire quickly but just genuinely enjoyed throughout
A pleasant surprise from a band I never heard of. This was fun and I enjoyed it. 3.75/5
Hmm... I don't know quite how to feel about this. There were some parts that was quite interesting, like the three four songs, along with 'Not A Lot To Do'. And the overall sound was definitely had something at times. On the other hand I found that overall it sounded a bit weak somehow, like it lacked some instruments like pads or something to make it sound a bit more full. Sometimes it just sounded a bit amateur somehow, not sure how to put it. I also got a bit annoyed with the singer quite quickly. It just sounded a bit pretentious somehow... and I always got the feeling that this sounded just like some other famous band I've heard, but can't remember the name of. I think in the end it's going to have to be a 3 for me. It had some ups and downs, so that's what feels most suitable. Plus points for stumbling into something I have never heard of before!
A pleasant surprise! Never heard of the Zutons before. Realised that they were the original creators to "Valerie" which I of course know. Anyway the album starts really strong with "Zuton Fever" which was probably my favourite track of the album. Such a good and catchy riff! The first few tracks were all good but I lost interested a bit towards the middle-end. I can't put my finger on what is. When I'm listening to tracks while writing this it all sounds quite good. The main parts I didn't like were the acoustic tracks which just didn't do it for me. I think I need to come back to this one and see if the whole thing grows on me. It is possible i just lost interest for no reason of the album but external circumstances. Going for a very strong 3 for now.
This was up and down for me. Sometimes the voice was rather monotone than I would have preferred, but sometimes I really liked the diverse songs and stuff. I think I recognize a lot of creativity, nothing particularly WOWed me but it was definitely interesting.
Not picking on <...checks top of page again to remember the name of the band...> The Zutons in particular but they feel like yet another 21st century "been there" rock band, most of which is so unmemorable I've already lost the memory of any of the songs not 3 minutes after it's all over. As for this specifically I think if it were released in 1971 instead of 2004 I'd think a lot more highly of it - which I admit is 101% unfair - but I didn't fight for you all in WWII so I would lose my freedom to enjoy or not enjoy whatever the hell I want so in keeping with a love it or leave it theme, I am indeed leaving it. Also I hate that honking sax. 4/10 2 stars.
6/10. I was hoping that I would like this album much more than I actually did like it. It has some nice rock 'n' roll vibes. I was reminded of The Cramps. However, over time, the album started feeling boring. I don't remember what the middle of the album sounds like, and I only listened to the album a few hours ago.
Very positive surprise. Never heard of the band before.
5/10 Aggressively boring
Nice enough album 3/5
A album I think that would have benefitted fromsome re-writes and editing, the crumb of a great album was here 3.5*
New spin on old psych but done well. I like the zany aspect to it but there are also some really great songs on here.
I really enjoyed this one and would happily listen to it again.
Never heard of these guys, but their name sounded fun. I really enjoyed this album, has a pretty unique sound. Definitely one I'll be saving for the future. Favorite songs were Remember Me and Not A Lot To Do.
What do I say about this? "Inoffensive", I think sums it up best. 3/5.
Never heard of this band. Enjoyed it! 4/5
Meh.
excellent! Great country-rock folk sound. Really enjoyed it a lot!
This came out right before the Arctic Monkeys. I think they have roughly the same influences. Somehow the Arctic Monkeys were far more successful while the Zutons made far better music. Favorite song: Zuton fever.
The Zutons are cool. I was a big fan of a few of their tracks (not on this album), but this was also pretty great. Almost a 4.
01) Zuton Fever – 7,5 02) Pressure Point – 9,0 03) You Will You Won't – 8,5 04) Confusion – 9,0 05) Havana Gang Brawl – 8,5 06) Railroad – 8,0 07) Long Time Coming – 7,5 08) Nightmare Part II – 7,5 09) Not a Lot to Do – 7,0 10) Remember Me – 8,5 11) Dirty Dancehall – 7,0 12) Moons and Horror Shows – 7,5 13) Don't Ever Think (Too Much) – 8,5 TOTAL: 8,00 (80/100) Current ranking: 143/411
Good album.
Not something that I would run to buy, but it has one or two moments.
This album was a lot of fun. I wasn't ready for it but it got my attention right away. Thanks!
Had absolutely no idea what to expect with this, but I really liked it.
Really unique and cool sound. Very new age post-punk with a good mixture of instruments like horns and keys. Fun melodies and all that. If anything it gets a little one-sided and fails to flesh out, but overall enjoyable!
Très belle découverte ce matin, jamais entendu parler de ce groupe. Bel album aux sonorités skas (avec les cuivres, grosse base et percussions), rocks (avec quelques bons passages de guitares électriques et voix à la The White Stripes) et folks, voir country. De très bonnes chansons (« Zuton Fever »; « Pressure Point », dont la voix du chanteur fait penser à Jack White; « You Will You Won’t » et les plus douces « Railroad », « Remember Me » et « Moon and Horror Show »).
Où étais-je en 2004 lorsque cet album est sorti? Belle découverte. C’est exactement le genre de musique que j’écoutais à l’époque, je suis surpris de ne pas avoir connu ça avant. Chaque chanson est un hit potentiel, c’est vraiment un disque FUN!
I have never heard The Zutons and I knew exactly what this would sound like. 1.85
Never heard of them. Interesting
MID
Garagey and fun!
Love it!
Mæhhh
Een soort te vaak gewassen en daardoor een beetje vaal uitgeslagen White Stripes. Een soort Bono op zang. Vleugje Madness erbij door de sax. Ik vind dat dit niet per se in de lijst hoeft, maar tegelijkertijd pak ik dit soort post-2000 gitaarbandjes gretig met beide handen aan natuurlijk. Ik heb hier verder heel weinig over te melden. Goed te doen, beetje vergeetbaar.
I did not know this group or album. I definitely liked their quirky style, both musically and lyrically. I also thought there was enough variety that it kept my interest. The thing I most disliked was that some of the instrumentation was so overly simplistic that I thought I was listening to a mediocre high school band at times.
It was fine. It was just... fine.
This is a fun album. I'm a sucker for anything apocalyptic. Definitely will be bumping this along with Bowie's "Diamond Dogs" during an apocalypse
It's a pleasant album - but somehow every time I try to get into this band I feel something's missing. The songwriting's good, the pacing of the album is good but something grates with my brain and all these years I have not been able to pinpoint what. Well, sometimes that's how it goes.
I liked this more than I thought I would!
Kind of reminded me of Black Keys at the beginning
The musical equivalent of vanilla flavour... not bad but a bit boring
Who cares?
They were celebrated for "Valerie" (not on this album). I feel like I am hearing a resort, cruise or country club cover band/session musicans? versatile but nothing shines, moves or touches me. No review needed. Not to me essential, unique, compelling, influential delightful or challenging. I even went to find 'Valerie', their one hit. But their smoothness has become a grating blandness to my ear. I'd nominate this as one (of many abscure albums) to PRUGE FORM THE LIST to bring in more varied, independant, World and female artists who can introduce us to new sounds.
Here is a list of things this album sounds like, according to the wikipedia entry: Musically, the sound of the album has been described as folk, garage rock and indie pop, rooted in blues rock; the Coral; Love; the Animals; swampy blues, '60s psych-rock, offbeat folk; the Beatles, the La's and Shack; Led Zeppelin, Traffic and Frank Zappa; Dr. John, old-ska, trashy ’60s garage rock, Johnny Cash; goofy B-movie atmosphere; 'soul-funk-voodoo vibe'; ska and country; Spaghetti Westerns; Eastern European folk music; the Ink Spots; garage boogie; doo-wop vocal harmonies; Eric Burdon; "Crosstown Traffic" by the Jimi Hendrix Experience; "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding; Stax; the Zombies; Dire Straits; Franz Ferdinand; Tina Turner; and Merseybeat. All mixed up in a bucket, and don't skimp on the saxophone. I think I'm gonna be sick... (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aczPDGC3f8U)
Super into this band!
I find this fits in kind of a Shins or a Strokes or Arctic Monkeys and maybe White Stripes kind of vibe but a little funkier. It was a fun listen but not too much lasting appeal unfortunately. Having never heard of them I was quite happy to hear this though. Long Time Coming is probably my favorite off this.
This album took a few songs for me to warm up to it. But overall it was a fun ride. The Zutons seem like the Old 97. In that they’re a super talented band that makes really enjoyable songs but is missing some element to achieve main stream success and appeal.
"Who Killed......The Zutons" is the debut studio album by English rock band the Zutons. Their music is described as folk, garage rock and indie pop rooted in blues rock. Thanks...that covers just about every band I know. The album was produced by Ian Broudie of the Lightning Seeds and the band members included Dave McCabe (vocals, guitarist), Bryan Chowdhury (guitar), Russell Pritchard (bass), Sean Payne (drums) and Abi Harding (sax). The album had generally favorable reviews and hit #6 on the UK charts. A spaghetti western guitar riff opens "Zuton Fever." A bass and clicking drums are added. There's sax and guitar interludes. The music has a sense of mystery or even comedy. It sounds somewhat like the Arctic Monkeys. McCabe going on about bones, epidemics and having a fever. "Pressure Point" starts out with shakers and "Ahh Oooohh Ooooohh" doo-wop harmony vocals. McCabe in his high tenor can't get the pressure point out of his head. A rock-out guitar outro. The band goes all harmonization and chanting in "You Will You Won't." More in the blues rock arena with some funk thrown in. Another interesting guitar outro sounding a lot like Jimi's "Crosstown Traffic." "Confusion" is softer, gentler more a ballad. Acoustic guitar, drums, a bicycle horn and romantic sax solo. He just can't stay in the relationship. "Remember Me" takes it a little faster. There's an alt-country guitar and it's catchy pop. Someone referenced merseybeat to describe this...I guess so...I'd have it to look that up...isn't that the Beatles?...OK merseybeat it is. It's an eulogy to his best mate who's lost a romance. The album closes with "Don't Ever Think (Too Much)." People are singing and clapping. McCabe singing fast and with high tension. A catchy, short song. This album had a nice variety of styles in it: pop, rock, ballads, lounge, baroque, alt-country and oh, OK, merseybeat. At times, they reminded me of the Pixies, Franz Ferdinand, Arctic Mokeys and White Strpes. That's all good. McCabe is a decent lead singer. The band does a good job building songs. I liked mostly all the songs. This is a good album. Most people should enjoy this.
Album 619 of 1001 The Zutons - Who Killed...... The Zutons? (2004) Rating : 4.5 / 5 Some more lads from Liverpool. First heard of this album when I was listening through the playlist and it stuck with me. I was actually halfway through a favorite song on this album on Spotify when I saw this was album of the day. "Not a Lot to Do", a head nod to those lazy Sundays has become a favorite track. Described as "alternative rock with a retro flair". That works. Good album.
Favourite tracks: you will you won't; pressure point; remember being; dirty dancehall
An occasionally fun record. And then not, in equal measures. Also absofuckinlutely not important.
This album is fine. I don't think it's bad, but it also doesn't do anything for me, personally. I hate to give it less than 3 stars, because there is a lot of talent in the songwriting, but I feel it would be disingenuous to give it more than 2 stars, since I really didn't personally connect with it, and I don't think it doesn't anything terribly special. It just feels okay.
Always nice.
Man what a snooze fest
A good listen, but this is just a budget version of everything Jack White does
This is fine, in fact I may investigate if The Zutons made any other albums before they were killed.
where was this album when i was 17 and dead into uk indie from the 2000s best song: confusion worst song: nightmare 2
Pretty good 👍
Banda inglesa indie...até q legalzinho
A lovely surprise, to be honest. I was expecting the same damn boring indie rock but I was surprised by a very versatile album sonically. The concept makes the album even more interesting and the lyrics are quite cohesive.
Who Killed… The Zutons? Boredom, I think.
Out of all of the semi-obscure 2000's UK indie rock bands on this list, I think this one is my favorite so far, it's not great, but it isn't generic. I kind of get White Stripes vibes from them, just not as good. High 3.
Utter rubbish….pressure was the only song I mildly enjoyed. The rest was a bunch of blaaaaa
I liked this a lot. Unexpected and geeky.
Wish I'd listened to this at the time, oh well, 20 years on great fun!
Was never overly impressed with The Zutons, appreciated what they did and respect them for the singles but this as an album didn’t do much for me, I get why they are liked as a band though
Mir unbekannte Rockband. Klingt ok, Highlights waren für mich keine dabei. 3/5
Brit version of the Black Keys.. 2000s indie/garage rock. Nothing bad, nothing original.
Kind of interesting, they have a sound. Haven’t heard them before and maybe worth another listen at some point. They certainly understand how to construct a song and are clearly musicians.
Ok. Nothing really stood out for me.
I enjoyed listening to this quite a bit. It would probably be a 4 star album, except at some point they decided that they had to use every instrument in the studio. I didn't think that worked and it pulled me out of the listening experience at times. So it's an okay record, I'll probably listen to it again. But I don't know if I'll actively seek to put it on.
Not bad.
Definitely a Forrest Gump box of chocolates of an album. If I was more enamoured of McCabe's vocals I might have given this five stars. There was some hard candy, some soft centres, and some of those ones that everyone leaves in the box until last. Worth a four, I think.
It was OK, but, no, I did not HAVE to hear this...
Kinda cool.
Very unremarkable album from 2004. Even though I would struggle to select albums from that year for this list (majority of 2004 album I can think of are at best 4 stars), it still does not make sense to include this album.
Sounded okay, but not sure why it is on the list.
Some reasonable tunes but they don't resonate with me.
Ich habe nichts gegen wilde Mischungen. Da kann ein neuer Geschmack entstehen. Der hier ist für mich eher ungenießbar.
I have no idea why this is on the list. But I liked it.
Great tunes on this
Ok. Nothing special though. Unsure why this made the cut. Sax does add a slightly different element.
Uh-oh, here comes a one-time band who were briefly big in the 2000’s (around the time they were added to the 1001 list) and have since disappeared (from this list, and pretty much all public consciousness). The Zutons are most widely known for being the original writers behind “Valerie”, later given a brassy R&B makeover (read: “improved immeasurably”) by Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson. “Valerie” isn’t on this debut album of theirs; instead, it’s 40 minutes of music I didn’t know and 30 seconds I recognised from treasured UK sitcom “Gavin and Stacey” (opening of “Nightmare Part II”). I hate to be prejudiced, but from where I’m standing, the Zutons smell suspiciously of indie landfill. …so, is “Who Killed… The Zutons” bad? Nah, not really. Is it good? Sure. Then… is it GREAT? Meh, hardly. “Who Killed… the Zutons” is the very definition of a middle-of-the-road, three star album. There’s some good stuff going on here, particularly the range of instrumentation (got to love a jaw harp in “Nightmare Part II”, and mandolin or saxophone breaks in “Not A Lot To Do”.) The clean, choppy guitar riffs by Boyan Chowdhury are solid, too: “Zuton Fever” and “Long Time Coming” consciously hark back to 60’s surf rock, along with the 70’s new wave bands who’d done the same. Thirty years later, the Zutons were part of the army of bands here to convince us that actually, guitars could be cool and fun. I’m all for that. I’m all for the simmering tension of “Pressure Point”, the slight and sprightly “Remember Me”, or the stand-out homespun folk of “Moons and Horror Shows”. And if I stumbled on The Zutons playing a daytime slot at a festival, I’d spend a happy hour there. It’s just that, after repeated listens to this album, I’m still struggling to discern any… pizazz? Spark? Flair? Passion? Something’s missing, and that’s the je ne sais quoi which makes music special. Whether they’re playing at being railroad workers, Havana brawlers, surf rockers or indie darlings, there’s a nagging suspicion the band are trying so hard to play it cool that they’ve lost track of carving out a real identity. It may seem an unfair criticism, but I’m struggling to expand on why this album just hasn’t connected with me. Maybe I’m burning out on auto-generated albums, or maybe The Zutons were burning out on songwriting, or maybe the early 2000’s were burning out on music. Either way, my ultimate takeaway is that “Who Killed… The Zutons” is fine, but fairly forgettable.
Good! Not amazing, would maybe listen to again? maybe also file it under 2000s british boring rock music too.
Uk rock, allerede glemt igen