(Fatcat Records / Inertia)

American alterna-rock from Scotland. Yeah, you heard me.

Originally a stage moniker for Scott Hutchison’s solo live shows, Frightened Rabbit became a ‘band’ in 2004 when his brother Grant got behind the drumkit. Billy Kennedy joined on guitar in 2006, soon before their debut release Sing The Greys. They’ve grabbed another member for keyboard duties since the release of the album that I’m reviewing poorly now, also enlisting the help of Peter Katis as producer. Apparently he’s also worked with Interpol and The National, as the promo sticker informs me. Good for him. There’s the history, now for the actual music. Refreshingly, there’s very little in common with the British indie scene right now and this Scottish quartet, keeping a knowing distance from angular dance rock and whiny vocals. In fact, it’s almost reminiscent of mid-‘90s American college rock; that immediate presence of hooks, crisp and jangly guitars (either clean electrics or just acoustics) and the comfortingly warm vocals of bandleader Scott Hutchison. But it’s done right and well, not as a reaction to the death of grunge or whatever compelled The Counting Crows and Barenaked Ladies to pick up a guitar. Old Old Fashioned is an update of stomping country rock, while the creeping mellotron introduction of Keep Yourself Warm will ensure a welcome place for the new keyboardist. Plus the song’s chorus couplet of “It takes more than fucking someone to keep yourself warm / you won’t find love in a hole” is both entertaining and informative. I’m still going to keep trying, though.

***½

MITCH ALEXANDER

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