Phrazes for the Young

Posted on: 4 December 2009

I mentioned the sounds of Julian Casablancas in this post. It wasn't much of a review post as I hadn't heard much of the song at that point. Since then, I've bought his album - Phrazes for the Young - and I thought now would be a good time to review it.

First Impressions, (I'm so funny) this is a nice sounding album. That was a few weeks ago. Now, I love it! If you love *that* Strokes sound, you'll love this album. From the start it becomes apparent where a lot of the driving force comes from in The Strokes. As soon as Julian opens his mouth you know you're gonna here the bouncing, yet effortless tones that have become synonymous with The Strokes.

Compiled of just 8 tracks*, this album really has to impress from the start, and it doesn't disappoint. The first track - Out of the Blue - sets the pace with snappy lyrics and a soaring chorus. There isn't honestly a track on this album that doesn't deserve to be on it. And the single - 11th Dimension - has cemented itself as an awesome track in the list; a song well chosen to represent the album.

If I could describe Julian Casablancas sound, it's almost a slightly more fun version of The Strokes; big choruses and riffs that will hook you from the start. And how can I not mention the harmonising guitars that make an appearance in several songs.

If you're into The Strokes, or you just want to listen to a concise, decent sounding album I would recommend this.

Rating: 8/10

*Although it seems iTunes were giving away 3 bonus tracks. Damn you iTunes.