Words Of Wisdom And Hope

Teenage Fanclub, the Scottish elite guitar collective and Jad Fair, the exalted and eccentric brain behind the influential veterans Half Japanese recorded this album during three recording sessions in 1999. Katrina Mitchell of The Pastels is featured on percussion and vocals.

The unlikely combination of Teenage Fanclub’s power-pop and Jad Fair’s DIY rock’n’roll makes for interesting listening – there is an underlying tension which keeps you curious and, there is, at times, a truly enchanting sound. There is an unmistakeable post-Cale Velvet Underground feel throughout.

There’s a variety of styles on this record with the sweet ‘Near To You’, the folksie ‘Vampire’s Claw’, the woozy ‘I Feel Fine’ and the driving ‘Crush On You.’

The underlying theme is Fair’s ‘Love Will Conquer All’ ethos. The trademark harmonies of Teenage Fanclub has been replaced by infectious, pared down quirkiness on this record, giving us a melodious, off-kilter pop experience.

In terms of concept and quality, this record defies all expectations. It may be an improbable alliance, but it is definitely a happy one.