Monday 18 October 2010

The Exception To The Rule #1 - Goodtimes Goodtimes

As a rule, I've tried to stick to Scottish bands on this blog, with one or two exceptions. It's about time I slacken the blinkers a bit and add a few more names to that short list. The first, and the main reason behind this series(?) of posts, is London-based Roma-bred, Franc Cinelli a.k.a. Goodtimes Goodtimes... that guy above with the guitar! Having been sent his cracking, debut eponymous album, I felt the need to say a few words about it, albeit some very belated words.

First of all, the album took me completely by surprise, which is part of the reason why I've found it incredibly difficult to write about. I don't know why, but I wasn't expecting anything this good! The album kicks off, unsurprisingly, with Point One - a song that begins as a sombre, americana affair which only just sparks into life as it ends. Song two, the more aptly named Let It Begin, sees the album start proper as Franc seemingly admits with the singalong chorus of "It all will begin again". It's a cracking up-tempto, track which shows off Franc's stunning Dylanesque vocals and will have everyone tapping their feet along to it. The rest of the album is a lovely mix of brooding folk (Magic Hour) and a fair few rockier moments (Diamonds In The Sky) that The Boss himself would be proud of. It's the 2-song backbone of the album though, which combine both, where the real magic lies. Fortune Teller Song and Burn are quite simply put, two amazing songs which more than justify the name choice. Goodtimes indeed!


The debut album is officially released on 1st November through Definition Arts. For a wee taster from it, head over to the Goodtimes Goodtimes website, sign up to the mailing list, and get your free download of the outstanding Fortune Teller Song. Then you can download the album over on iTunes now, with the CD also available from Franc himself here ....or here if you want a t-shirt with that!

2 comments: