Wonderland

While current single ‘Love Is The Key’ is surely one of the most ill-advised comeback salvos of recent memory, there is enough on Wonderland to somewhat redeem initial disappointments. The Charlatans have finally made the sun-kissed Californian album they always threatened since Tim Burgess turned his back on Blighty for LA a few years back. It starts pleasantly enough with ‘You’re So Pretty – We’re So Pretty’ – reminding us of that peculiar Mancunian bunker mentality and unstoppable confidence that The Charlatans and The Stone Roses perfectly encapsulated. But while there are hints of former glories, the bulk of Wonderland is third-rate guitar funk annoyingly punctuated by Burgess’ botched attempt at becoming an indie equivalent of Curtis Mayfield, even to the embarrassing extent that they totally pilfer ‘Love Is The Answer’ for the aforementioned tragedy entitled (ahem) ‘Love Is The Key’.

The most promising development in Charlatans land is a newly found dexterity in their musicianship – the trademark Hammond sound has been eschewed in favour of throbbing bass lines, subtle electronic nuances and superb drumming. The Beatlesque ‘Is It In You?’ sees Tim deliver his least annoying vocal performance over a half decent tune. Hopefully, Wonderland is merely a one album blip in an excellent career. It’s very reminiscent of the sonic tragedy Primal Scream made with Give Out But Don’t Give Up – and look what happened after that slip up.