Many said that this album would never be completed. Many said that that the band would have crumbled and fallen apart long before any thought of a second album had been dreamt of. Many had predicted the demise of Pete Doherty and the collapse of his musical empire, people who have tried again and again to help him through uncertain times. Mick, Adam and Drew have stood by him through thick and thin, and it is to their credit that Pete has gotten through the mess and is growing in strength. Pete, himself, as we all know has never had it easy but there has a been a steely determination to get back on track and declare to himself, most importantly, that he has turned the corner and that the future is looking brighter and more welcoming than ever.
The second album from the bands point of view is a nothing but a triumph. Many a time, writing and recording of the album has been held up. Many a time problems have been obstructing the path to which the band have wanted to take to ensure that the album was completed. I don't think that anyone involved with the band and/or the making of the album would have wanted to see a premature end to the career of Pete, not only on a professional level but also on a personal level. Mick, Adam and Drew have been like brothers to Pete, helping him out, being there for him, encouraging him to be the person we know he can be. The brilliant musician who can create masterpieces at a drop of a hat. To be known for his music, his lyrics, his showmanship. The Pete Doherty that ever libertines fan and Babyshambles fans wants to know. The band have over the course of the album grown stronger and a more tightly knit unit, which blends musical know how with a touch of magic, that astounds and astonishes anyone and everyone who listens to it.
From Carry On Up The Morning to Lost Art Of Murder, these twelve tracks represent Babyshambles at their best. Writing, recording and producing material which equals the level of their abilities as a band and, individually as musicians. The typical Babyshambles swagger is present in latest single release Delivery. Listen and like! A number of tracks jumped out at me, when I first listened to the album. First up was Side Of The Road. A quirky number which left you half jumping for joy and half listen intently at Pete at work. Then came There She Goes. A jazzy little number which you felt that you alt to grow a beard, smoke a pipe and wear a tweed jumper and harry potter style glasses! Lost Art Of Murder, you can catergorize as being in the same league as Albion. Though this one falls just a tad short of the greatest of the latter track. There's just something that doesn't quite hit the mark about the track.
The band, yet again, have overcome controversy, to produce a great album, which even the most die hard 'shambles fan had serious doubts would ever see the light of day. Questions galore about the reliability of one Mr doherty was at the top of the agenda. But he has proved that he is back to his best and here is conclusive proof that Babyshambles are one of the best bands of today. The album is testimony to this fact. An excellent album which sees the best of the band!