Les Savy Fav - What Would Wolves Do? / The Year Before The Year 2000 (Wichita)
3/5
Witnessing Tim Harrington dressed as if the lead from a Weight Watchers group version of Cats, berating the front row of an ATP crowd with a vintage claret and onomatopoeic screeches is a moment I'll doubtfully soon forget. Charismatic, wired and not a little unhinged, I can count on one hand the amount of bands that can compete with them in a live setting.
Aside from the theatrical pomposity that underscores their most engaging live performances, is a back catalogue of not inconsiderable worth. Economical, focused and searing with a feral intelligence, Les Savy Fav have never shied away from pushing their own limits. It's with this in mind that I approach this new double A side single, the first showings from an album seven years in the making. Inevitably, there's a weighty burden of expectation. With perhaps an even greater inevitably, Les Savy Fav haven't exactly played to type here.
On lead track 'What Would Wolves Do?' Harrington's customary growl is still in place, but now off-set by a slightly more considered croon, at times reminiscent of a less elfin Jonathan Donahue. Propulsive rhythm section and soaring guitars noted, there's less of the dance element as formerly written all over past long players 'Inches' and 'Go Forth'. Perhaps aggrieved with not having received the long overdue praise they surely merit while others have thrived, there's a sense that the band are aiming for a wider fanbase. Ostensibly more pop in structure than previous outings, I can't help thinking that in their aim for larger appeal some of their ferociousness has been unwittingly sacrificed.
Double A side 'The Year Before The Year 2000' follows a similar structural pattern, and as fanfare for the new album is a little underwhelming. For a band regarded for both their uncompromising approach and excellent singles, they're a surprisingly toothless pair.
There's no doubt that on stage is where these recordings will come alive, the always unnerving Harrington pushing them to breaking point. If nothing else, Les Savy Fav have consistently been ahead of the pack. On initial impressions, it might just be a bridge too far on this occasion. Or just maybe it's going to take me a little time to catch up with their way of thinking. It wouldn't be the first time.
Stream 'What Would Wolves Do?' HERE.
Artists in this article: Les Savy Fav
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