Generation Freakshow

Initially intended to be the second release in Feeder’s two-pronged “band within a band” project that began with 2010’s well-received Renegades record, Generation Freakshow is the Welsh rockers’ eighth album and sees the duo embrace their more commercial leanings in a bid to stay on top of the Brit rock pile. Not quite as noisy as their seventh album, the music on the new record is a more measured mix of tunes that recall the heady days of Comfort In Sound and Yesterday Went Too Soon and is arguably one of the group’s best efforts in their 20 year history.
Having steadfastly refused to buckle to various trends like nu-metal and emo over the decades, it’s won’t surprise many readers to learn that they have once again opted to stick to their guns: this album sounds like classic Feeder. Tracks like ‘Idaho’ and ‘Headstrong’ are some of singer-songwriter Grant Nicholas’ best and are a tuneful blend of grunge and pop punk, while ‘Quiet’ sees the boys make a welcome return to the world of alt. ballads. Arguably one of Britain’s most consistent rock bands, Generation Freakshow features more than enough fist in the air anthems to please both old and new fans. Here’s to another 20 years.