Album Review: The Cribs, Selling A Vibe

After spending much of their career feeling like hamsters on a wheel, The Cribs made a break for freedom at the beginning of the decade. They decided they’d only write another record when they were creatively – rather than contractually – compelled to.

The Jarman Brothers' ninth LP, Selling A Vibe, is the Wakefield outfit’s first offering in their new era, and sees the punk-imbued indie rockers end their five year silence in stellar fashion. Born from reflection and reconnection, producer Patrick Wimberly also deserves some of the credit for its success.

Picked by the band for his penchant for working with pop acts, he’s pushed The Cribs outside their comfort zone, while making them embrace modern recording practises. Sanding off the band’s rougher edges, Selling A Vibe is driven by melodies and emotion.

Standouts include the funk and falsetto spiced ‘If Our Paths Never Crossed’, the Beach Boys and Weezer-indebted title track, and the quiet call to arms ‘Brothers Won’t Break’, which features guitars that tip a cap to their old bandmate Johnny Marr.

Crammed with heart and hooks, Selling A Vibe is a welcome reminder that no one does it quite like The Cribs.

8/10