The Proclaimers-- Born InnocentPersevereFeb. 17, 2004
Most people know the Proclaimers as a pair of nerdy Scottish twins who sang that '80s hit "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" and introduced the verb "haver" to the American airwaves. Just to put an end to that mystery, it means "to babble drunkenly."
Admittedly, I am completely biased in writing this album review. The Proclaimers, unlikely a group as they are, are my favorite band ever. Yet despite my devotion to the Reid brothers, at times I found myself downright annoyed by this, their latest effort. Somewhere, their infectious, fun-filled, melodic sound tinged with American rock and gospel influences went sour and started to sound more like the ravings of Scottish soccer hooligans.
The title track is a rollicking good time but it sounds too much like their older work to get excited about it and "Hate My Love" with its cringe-worthy lyrics, "You're worse than drink/ You're worse than crack/ For you they should bring hanging back" is downright painful to listen to. Thankfully, "You Meant it Then" comes with just two clicks of the skip button after that embarrassment. Arguably the best song on the album, it has hints of a reverb-heavy surf guitar and nails all the harmonies.
No fan should ever actually hate anything by their favorite band. But I guess it's a tough kind of love I have for my boys from Glasgow. Born Innocent ain't bad, but I just expected something more.
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