09.05
The Charlatans – Up to Our Hips
Up to Our Hips (1994) is the Charlatans, or The Charlatans UK as we know them here in the States, third full length album. The Charlatans have always been one of my favorite bands. And I find that every release by them is in some ways better then the previous albums. With exception to their 9th album which was terrible regea crap and I like to pretend doesn’t exist. So excluding that album, every album by the Charlatans is a fantastic album that will often follow a general theme. For example the first album was a very “baggy” album characterized by the funky drum beats and driving bass rhythms coming together to form a danceable rock music. Examples of “baggy” can be seen in bands like The Stone Roses, The Happy Mondays and early Blur albums (as a side note I will include these bands in future music segments). One of the things that does remain constant in the band is the dynamic that each member of the band brings. Tim Burgess in lead vocals, Mark Collins with guitar, Rob Collins with organ and piano (deceased), Martin Blunt with bass, and Jon Brookes with Drums. And the most important dynamic that I believe was brought to the band was from Rob Collins with his organ playing which in the current music scene i believe the Charlatans distinctive sound comes from it.
Choosing a Charlatans album was extremely difficult for me because I love all their albums so much. I chose this one because it was the one I was listening to at the time. For me to describe this album I would describe it as one of their more guitar driven albums, though as always the guitar to second fiddle to the organ. At this time in their career the idea of “baggy” music was beginning to die so and the Charlatans were beginning to evolve and change as a band. While keeping to their dance roots they embraced the current trend of Brit-pop. Up to our Hips sold relatively well in the UK, but again didn’t make much of an impact here in the states.
Videos – The Charlatans Videos are a bit weird so if need be just listen to them and don’t watch.
Can’t Get Out of Bed
I Never Want an Easy Life
Jesus Hairdo
I discovered the Charlatans when they released their free album. At the time it really didn’t capture me, but after going back and listening to some of their earlier stuff I’ve come to really enjoy it. Now, after watching these videos and reading what you have to say I think I’m going to explore their entire library.
One of the things that I noticed about their most current album is that it sounds very New Order- ish. I don’t know if any one else has made that same comparison or not. I didn’t know what to think about that album at first either, but I also have really come to enjoy it.
I still can’t figure out why you didn’t do “Tellin’ Stories”, Matt. It’s the best Charlatans album by far.
I agree Jeff, but I also feel that every album by them is best, sans “Simpatico” (9th Album)
i agree as well, i really like their earlier stuff though…
I have to concur with Mr. Richardson: their earlier work is far superior to their more recent endeavors.