By Sara Pintilie/entertainment editor
The Fratellis might not be as famous as that other 2006 import, Arctic Monkeys, but with its debut album, Costello Music, it might get there.
The Scottish trio brings to the table a manic collection of punk, alternative and indie rock.
Two tracks off Costello Music have already become widely known, well, in the advertising world anyway. “ Flathead” has graced the screen in the new iTunes/iPod commercial while “Chelsea Dagger” is that song you hear in the Balls of Fury’s TV spot.
The band sounds like Arctic Monkeys’ wild, pub-loving cousin. What it lacks in the artistic flair the Arctic Monkeys thrive in, the Fratellis makes it up in having addicting fun.
The lyrics are simple enough, they mostly revolve around girls, but the group brings an interesting sound with an air of something I swear I have heard before.
I can never seem to place my finger on what the source is: early Beatles? a hint of the Beach Boys? The Libertines? But I don’t see that as a bad thing.
Costello Music changes pace with a couple of tracks. “Whistle for the Choir” is a breezy song with a classic feel while “The Gutterati?” reminds me of ’80s punk.
As an added bonus, two extra tracks are available. “Ole Black ‘n’ Blue Eyes” is hidden on the CD, and “3 Skinny Girls” is available to download from a Web site.
The latter is not worth the hassle unless you like the band but not the album.
Though the album has catchy tunes and ambitious riffs, Costello Music has a flaw–—it has the ability to be forgotten.
Unfortunately, it isn’t profound enough to create a dent in music history.
But right now, the album is worth checking out and listening to with the windows down.
Noteworthy tracks: “Flathead” and “For the Girl”
