Teenage Fanclub
I Need Direction EP
Columbia U.K.

After a three-year hiatus, some of that due to Creation Records closing up shop, the Fanclub has returned more potent than ever. This is the first single from their forthcoming full length, Howdy. And if the songs here are any sign of what sound they are doing now and what Howdy will sound like, then I’m going to be one happy little fella.

The single track is one of the best Fanclub songs I’ve heard in years. And that’s something to write Ma about, cause I’ve liked everything they’ve put out--immensely. This track blends all the years of pop style they’ve tried into a three amazing minutes. A great mix of power indie pop meets the Byrds with a little Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young thrown in as well. Beautiful harmonies make this track flow right through you, making you wish it was a twelve minute opus, just to be able to enjoy it that long. The second track could’ve very well made this a double A-sided single. I may not jump out as well as the first, but it doesn’t take long to sink in and you get lost in the lyrics as the song’s story unfolds--or maybe in just the sheer beauty of the song. These boys should be on the next VH1-Storyteller session. Not only are their songs lyrically smart and tell life stories, these guys are full of humor, would be great entertainers and have buckets of stories to throw on the audience. The last tune is one of the best Pixies covers I’ve gotten to listen to, and there’s been a lot of Pixies covers lately. During the track you keep expecting Kim Deal to chime in, but with great harmonies, about a minute into the song you forget it’s a cover. After six full-length records and an armload of singles, Teenage Fanclub are still as good as they ever were, if not better. They’re one of the few bands from that early 90’s wave of Brit pop that is still putting out quality stuff. Now that’s something you write both Ma and Pa about.

-Jeff Turner

Track Listing:

1. I Need Direction
2. I Lied
3. Here Comes Your Man

Young Magic