It was the moment we've all been waiting for, the Libertines finally unveiling new music, and boy has it delivered. New single, 'Gunga Din' was revealed via Annie Mac on BBC Radio 1 as her 'Hottest Track In The World' yesterday and the reception so far has been nothing short of phenomenal.
Following the announcement of the bands belated third album, 'Anthems For Doomed Youth', earlier in the week; Pete, Carl, Gary and John finally unmasked the first installment of what they've been putting together over in Thailand for all these months. 'Gunga Din' is an instant pleaser, second and third judgements are simply not required for a track of this calibre. It's fair to forgive the band for the 11 years they left us angling since the release of this absolute belter. The track portrays a new influence, and a new direction for the band, whilst also doing its best to merge with the cageless rock n'roll of years gone by. By all accounts it works, and superbly it does so. It's fresh - which allows for new appreciators - it's certainly proven that they can keep up with the times, but it's also given Libs fans of yesteryear something to smile about. 'Gunga Din' possesses all the right ingredients to become an anthem, and come the bands headline Reading and Leeds performances this summer, it could already have done so.
RIFFED's Rating: 10/10