Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
[Polydor]

For many people, Ricky Wilson’s greatest achievement over the past couple of years has been his and the crew’s ability to finally nail ‘Employment’ live.

Therefore, it is not surprising that they pick tone and drive from that to push into second territory, with aid from a funk tilted instrumental amble. This builds into Wilson’s slower, pleading and reflective range that is cushioned by some soft and soulful female cooing.

A provocative stammering helps the soul searching and shows that da Chiefs still know how to craft a mainstream pop-song. ‘Ruby’ will stay in your head like a loved ones phone number. The Kaiser Chiefs are, in essence a live band and this slower, hip swaying cruise, will broaden out the range and give you a chance to chill out after bouncing to ‘I Predict A Riot’.

There are no surprises here, but I am sure their fan base didn’t really want one anyway. Actually the longing touch may even help their appeal broaden even more.