If they have faced recent criticism for an apparent separation from their previous inspiration, the Scottish four piece certainly did not show a drop in quality as they took over our capital city for the night. This is most noticeable in their iconic on-stage style the band moves as a tight and intense unit that really communicates their love for music to the crowd. While any verbal interaction is kept to a minimum, passion oozes from the pores of every person on stage.
Front man Alex Kapranos obviously takes a lot of attention and considering his perpetual vocal improvement this is certainly well-deserved. However, the drumming skill of Paul Thomson completely stole the show. The power and ingenuity of Thomson is borne out in every single song as he confidently breathes life into new tunes and past classics alike. It is hard to overstate the impression that this Keith Moon/Phil Selway/Animal hybrid makes and how important he is in creating the bands unique live sound.
The consistency of Thomson and the band in general is important when the changing sound of the band is considered. While their latest album, "Tonight: Franz Ferdinand" marks a departure from earlier work, the cohesion of the band makes a set of old and new virtually seamless. This culminates in a brilliantly innovative and well-paced concert. The highlight of this set would have to be the energetic "Outsiders", but this is akin to choosing a diamond from a collection of other gemstones.
The mark of a great band is one that sounds better in person than on record; point in case is the newly revived and truly fresh Franz Ferdinand.
-The English Student
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