328) Saint Etienne - International

Someone should compile a list of the most underrated bands ever, top 100 based on just being generally under appreciated.

I have made it clear I have no musical ability whatsoever, but it must be galling to know you are talented and then watch Westlife sell millions whilst you can only dream, I’d not cope if it was me.

On the list of underappreciated must be Saint Etienne, maybe not in the press but certainly sales wise since 1991 they have released twelve records, their last album The Night storming to number 191 in the charts.

So, we have International which they have announced will be their last studio album, not because they have fell out, or have run out of ideas, they just think the time is right, which sounds the exact way Saint Etienne would finish their studio album career.

They have also decided to bring people on board for their final record, the band are more than capable on their own, but we have real highlights here.

Opening track Fine is co written and produced by Chemical Brother Tom Rowland & also features Doves Jez Williams on guitar and along with next track Dancing Heart could fill a dancefloor, well I think they could, would have in my day, but they are perfect pop bangers, not sure that sounds right from a fifty four year old but they are older than me so pop bangers it is.

Taking of age The Go-Betweens is a duet between Sarah Cracknell and Nick Heyward, yes that Nick Heyward who hasn’t aged a sodding bit, I should dislike Nick, looks good, full head of hair, ten years older than me, if we were in the same room people would think I’m his dad, but I don’t, I’ve enjoyed some of his solo stuff and this co-write is perfectly pitched, if only we could see him and Cracknell dancing, sharing a microphone as it stormed to number one, I know it’s not going to happen, sadly. 

Brand New Me has Grace Stephenson (Janet Planet from Confidence Man) on lead vocals with Sarah speaking the verses, the contrast works perfectly and the chorus & melody will be lodged in your head forever, seemingly Confidence Man are big fans well they have enhanced the Saint Etienne discography with this one.

Want to go out with a bang with a classy synth pop album why not get a man who knows about synth pop, Vince Clark co-writes Two Lovers, Saint Etienne and Erasure together sounds like an offer most would take up, it’s beautifully sung by Sarah and you won’t regret it.

It’s not all about the guests, each song has its moment, Save it for a Rainy Day is more reflective and Fade is worth it for the  piano and the shuffling beat and Why are you Calling? Is a mature clever pop song.

The record ends aptly with a song called The Last Time where they look back reflecting on what they have become. It probably is the last time as they have always seemed people of their word, but I wouldn’t be to upset if they went back on it. Top 100 easily.

7.75/10

GIVE IT A STREAM: Brand New Me