7/10

When news first broke of the return of Art Brut, fans of the outfit were almost split down the middle as to whether it would be a good idea or not. On one hand, hearing one of the most unique voices of the indie-rock boom of the mid 00s would definitely excite the now ageing thirty-somethings that lived through those times, yet as we have seen on so many occasions before, bands that try to resurrect themselves usually end up causing more damage to their legacy by returning with a weaker chapter to their back catalogue. But thankfully for Art Brut, it seems like they never stopped innovating as they return with their long-awaited new studio album ‘Wham! Bang! Pow! Let’s Rock Out!’, their first in seven years.

The most striking thing about listening to this new LP is just how vibrant and energetic the band still sound today. Seven years may have passed since their last full-length, but their demeanour and performance lacks all the usual fatigue we hear from bands looking to revive themselves. Instead, ‘Wham! Bang! Pow! Let’s Rock Out!’, much like its title would suggest, it a riotous return that looks to break all the regular stigma surrounding their apprehensive comeback. Although it is not all bells and whistles throughout, there is more than enough engaging material on here to get under your skin and feels like we are reliving the band's heyday along with them.

‘Wham! Bang! Pow! Let’s Rock Out!’ still manages to balance that abstract art-rock sound the band have always been known to produce, but still throws in plenty of raucous and galloping indie-rock to keep your ears pricked, with the occasional brass fanfare just for good measure. Most likely one of the best comebacks we have heard all year, Art Brut are certainly welcome back to continue as long as they like.