Once Upon a Time in the West - Hard Fi

<- This is a cool album cover. I'd just like to get that out of the way before I talk a bit about Hard-Fi's sophomore album, Once Upon a Time in the West. If you're familiar with their first album, Stars of CCTV, you won't be disappointed with this one. If you're new to the band, welcome aboard! We're about to explore some of my favorite modern British rock.
I know that people out there dislike it when you compare bands to other bands, but I'm going to do it anyway. If you remember back in the day when I reviewed Ok Go's album, Oh No, I summed it up by saying that the songs are simple, catchy, and wonderfully done. All of those things can be said about Hard-Fi as well. With a very British voice, Richard Archer leads the way in all of these tracks, giving them a wonderfully unique sound.
"Suburban Knights" starts off the album in the same vein as Stars of CCTV. It's a straightforward alt-rock tune that'll have you nodding your head and tapping your toes. However, it's what comes after the first track that sets this album apart and makes it extraordinary. "I Shall Overcome" uses some techniques that are new to the band, such as female backup vocals and a real smooth R&B feel behind it all. Definitely check it out.
"Tonight" and "Watch Me Fall Apart" do a great job of keeping that slower tempo interesting. For me, that's the biggest surprise in this album: the band chose to explore more corners of the alt/indie genre rather than sticking with the narrow sound that brought them success on their first album. In my opinion, they pull it well, and with plenty of grace. A few more influences/styles to listen for are the Who-like verses in "I Close My Eyes" and a very 80's-style track, "We Need Love".
If you want some simple alt/indie rock, you can always find it with Hard-Fi. However, it's really the way they've twisted their style in this album that makes it my choice for the week. With great melodies and catchy instrumentation, this album is a perfect choice if you're in the mood for some chillin'-out/driving music. Here's hoping that their third album is just as enjoyable! Happy listening, and see you next week.

Free link to the album on Napster:
http://free.napster.com/view/album/index.html?id=12580793

P.S.:
Also, this band is from Staines, and everyone knows that "West side is de best!"