Search - The Charlatans U.K. :: Some Friendly (Reis)

(four and a half stars) I heard a song on the radio . . .

trainreader | Montclair, N.J. | 02/04/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It must have been about fifteen years ago that I heard part of a song on the radio containing this unique swirling 60's styled psychedelic sound -- including a Hammond organ. After attempting to figure out what the song could be, and the performer of it, I tried in desperation to call the station I heard it on and singing into the telephone what I could recall of the song -- to no avail (this was years before one could get this information from the internet). Anyway, eventually I heard the song again, and it, of course, was "The Only One I Know," by the Charlatans UK, so I immediately rushed out to purchase "Some Friendly." Half a dozen albums later (and one concert in a small club) and I'm still a fan.



Actually, as it turns out, the aforementioned "The Only One I Know," became my second favorite song on the album, surpassed by the even better "Then," with that amazing bass line complimented perfectly by the omnipresent organ. The shimmering nostalgic feeling of "Sproston Green" concludes the album on a high note. Other highlights for me are the opener "You're Not Very Well," and the lively "Believe You Me," but there really isn't a weak link to this very fine album.



Obviously, it's natural to compare The Charlatans to the Stone Roses and Oasis. To me, the Stone Roses debut album sets an almost impossible watermark. The music is richer and more complex, and the Roses clearly had the more talented musicians. However, as pointed out in a previous review, the Stone Roses star burned too bright too soon, whereas The Charlatans play on. As far as Oasis is concerned, I've always liked the Charlatans more, although I can see how one could argue that the Charlatans could not match Oasis at their best (certainly not in cd or ticket sales).



The unfortunate thing about the Charlatans is that I think "Some Friendly," remains their freshest and best album to date. In later albums, the band would include too many songs that were unmemorable and, at times, somewhat dull. Even so, The Charlatans really should have been better known in the U.S.A. based on their first two albums alone. Just consider how few have reviewed "Some Friendly," and you'll see my point."

The only one I have.

H3@+h | VT | 03/23/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Though the whole album is pretty good, "The only one I know" is definitely the high point. Most of the disc has a good groove to it, and has alot of organ throughout. Some tracks dancy, some trippy. It simultaneously sounds retro and modern, and is good thing just to put on and enjoy. They also have a "best of" called "Melting pot", you may want to try that out. Either disc should fit well between your "Happy Mondays" and "Stone Roses" cd's."