The Kooks can sometimes seem trapped in a template. However, their latest album, Listen, is a stark reminder not to underestimate their ability to extract gold from the most unpromising of places.
‘Around Town’ opens the record with a gust of fresh air. It’s very “Kooksy”, showcasing their brand of quirky, offbeat rhythmic guitar work, buttressed by a powerful chorus of backup singers. Anthemic, and wearing its gospel influence on its sleeves, it’s a cracking start.
It wouldn’t be a Kooks record without choppy, high chords and an idiosyncratic lyrical delivery; ‘Forgive and Forget’ is a classic example of the band’s bread and butter. On the other hand, ‘See Me Now’ is light years away from the norm. It’s a sombre piano ballad about a lost loved one, and the chorus – ‘If you could see me now, see my smile, see your little boy, oh, would you be proud?’ – points to an unheralded side of the band.
The rest of the LP weaves through the familiar, riff-driven indie rock with distinctive funk overtones we’ve come to expect from the Brighton four-piece. Highlights include raw lead single ‘Down’ and exquisite finisher ‘Sweet Emotion’: it’s experimental, sexy and infectious in equal measure.
You can’t win ‘em all... numbers like ‘West Side’ and ‘Dreams’ aren’t exactly memorable. Regardless, there’s enough evidence of a revamped outfit to render Listen a worthy addition to The Kooks’ impressive collection.

OUT NOW.