Artist: Franz Ferdinand Album: Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action

Year: 2013
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Franz Ferdinand’s Album: Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action

When it comes to defining indie rock, Franz Ferdinand is a band that can never be disregarded. Since their debut in 2004, this Scottish band succeeded in creating a unique sound that sets them apart from the mainstream. Their fourth album, Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action, was released in 2013, and it’s safe to say that it has everything that a fan can expect from a Franz Ferdinand album. However, this album also presents a few innovative changes in the band’s sound that we will discuss in this review. Let’s dive in!

Franz Ferdinand has always been known for their dance rock music that incorporates sharp guitar lines and catchy choruses. This album is no exception, opening with the dynamic song ‘Right Action’, which merges the band’s classic sound with a brass section that makes it even more energetic. Following this, ‘Evil Eye’ and ‘Love Illumination’ match the same upbeat vibe. In contrast, ‘Bullet’, with its slow tempo and haunting tone, showcases a different, more emotional side of the band. The use of synths and drum machines throughout the album gives a subtle shift in the band’s sound, ultimately adding a new dimension to the album’s overall feel.

In terms of the band’s innovation on this album, their integration of different genres is worth mentioning. ‘Fresh Strawberries,’ for instance, brings in a 90's R&B sound with a unique guitar riff, showing the band’s versatility. In ‘Brief Encounters,’ they embrace psychedelic synths that create a hazy and dreamy atmosphere. This album presents a new direction for the band, exhibiting their willingness to experiment with their sound while still maintaining their trademark style.

Regarding the critics of this album, some reviewers stated that the album lacked a certain magic. The band’s creative shifts may sound different to what some fans were expecting, leaving them feeling underwhelmed. Nevertheless, it’s still a standout album, and the incorporation of new elements showcases the band’s uniqueness and artistic progression.

The most innovative and exciting part of the album is the album’s final track, ‘Goodbye Lovers and Friends.’ This song is a tremendous and epic way to end an album, with its sweeping strings and a monumental build-up. This track speaks to the band’s growth and maturity and represents all the elements that make Franz Ferdinand a remarkable band.

Overall, Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action is an excellent album for any Franz Ferdinand fan and a worthy addition to their discography. The album featuring a few twists and turns, making it sound familiar yet new. Franz Ferdinand have succeeded in experimentation with their sound while maintaining the core elements of the band that has won them such a strong following. It has been a unique journey to see their progression throughout the years, and this album is yet another example of their ever-changing but still-identifiable sound.