I’m never sure when two extremely creative bands get together to form a hybrid. Moonlandingz, the fictional band created by The Fat Whites and The Eccentronic Research Council, is good but not exceptional. I wondered how Franz Ferdinand and Sparks, the darlings of art rock in days gone by were going to live up to the hype surrounding FFS. Both bands produce a unique sound. It was going to be interesting to see how they could produce something special by working together.
‘Johnny Delusional’ is the first single from the forthcoming self-titled FFS album. The track is absorbing and theatrical. The Sparks element of the band is at the forefront of the track, the beautiful, strange, high-pitched vocals from Russ Mael dominating, tempered in places by the deeper tones of Alex Kapranos. The band is spoilt for choice vocally and instrumentally, with a wealth of talent and experience to draw on. I’m not sure I can hear the Franz Ferdinand influence a great deal, but the lyrics indicate their presence. Both bands know how to provide drama and interest, and there is plenty here.
The question is, does it live up to the hype? Yes and No. It is a good strong track, great lyrics and catchy enough. Good but not brilliant. Both bands have produced stronger material than this. For a first offering, it’s fine. It’s good to see both bands can still pull an interesting track out of the hat. I know a lot of people are delighted with this. I can see why. Perhaps I’m not as much of a Sparks fan as some and would have liked more of a Franz Ferdinand element. Would I listen to it? Yes. Would it make it into my top ten spring tracks? No. I suggest you listen to it yourself. For me, the jury on FFS is still out.
RIFFED's Rating: 7/10
Listen to 'Johnny Delusional' via YouTube: