Carl Barat is back as Carl Barat.3 after his previous stints with 'The Libertines' and 'Dirty Pretty Things' to release his solo, self-titled effort from his self-funded label Arcady, but is he any better off for making us repeat the word 'self?'
As a whole, yes, from the very beginning of the track which holds a Jackie Wilson circa 'Higher' feel, Barat's debut solo single is full of retro vibes which really bring about a late summer chillaxed feel to the whole affair. Now it may seem like every other single dropped at the moment seems to hold that 'clinging onto summer' appeal, but this feels very different. Utilising his traditional guitar and drum based sound, 'Run With The Boys' provides a more uplifting and carefree tune that is a welcome alternative to both his previous fare and to the more club directed tracks on offer at the moment.
The musician's vocals are confident and are reminiscent of The Killers, but not in an awful copycat style whilst the reflective lyrics prove interesting and accessible. The euphonic backing music is boppy and light and will have all generations enjoying it, from kids who relate to it now to their parents who can bask in its nostalgic sound with lines such as "...run with the boys night after night, how do our candles still burn bright in the morning."
Barat's vocals show more dexterity than ever before, which give us high hopes for his debut album, whilst obviously having fun with the track. Breaking away from his well known sound shaped by his work with the Libertines and Dirty Pretty Things, Carl Barat shows that he's not a one trick pony.
8/10 - Spice
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