Anglophile in Exile: Introducing Franz Ferdinand

Music has been invaded by Franz Ferdinand.

No, not the Archduke of Austria, but four guys from Scotland.

Alex Kapranos, Nick McCarthy, Bob Hardy and Paul Thompson make up this smartly dressed quartet formed in 2002. You may ask yourself, “Did they really name their band after a historical figure?” Well, yes they did! While watching a race featuring a horse named “The Archduke” a discussion about Franz Ferdinand began and how that would be a great name for a band. Besides the alliteration, they wanted to be a band that would change music, just like Franz Ferdinand’s death changed the world.

Their first single was Take Me Out, released in 2004, and reached #3 on the UK Chart. Their self titled album officially introduced them to the listening public. Franz is the latest addition to the long list of art school rock often found in British music (The Who, Sex Pistols, Blur, etc). Their second album, You Could Have It So Much Better, was released in 2005 to mixed reviews.

I don’t like to dance, but I quickly became a fan of Franz and their beats. It was love at first listen upon hearing Matinee back in ’04 and we’ve never parted. They are more than a great soundtrack for getting ready for a night out (or the actual night out). Maybe its the upbeat rhythms, but it’s great writing and walking music. I recommend you pick up/download their latest, Tonight. Released earlier this year, Tonight is their strongest album. A concept album of sorts, the songs describe a evening of debauchery and the hazy morning after. Even if you aren’t a partier, you can’t help but not to have an extra beat to your step while listening to Tonight.