Welcome back The Cribs with open arms, because if my ears are not deceiving me they have come back with a classic!
Now let’s get the obvious out the way first. The band gained a member in the last year and it isn’t another Jarman. The legendary, and I mean that literally, Johnny Marr has become an official member of The Cribs. Adding such a talent to an already accomplished outfit would surely strengthen what is already a class band. Marr not only adds fans! But adds a touch of nostalgic musicianship that a band like The Cribs can only benefit from. On first listen to the album you can definitely hear the progression from the bands last record, ‘Mens Needs, Women’s Needs, Whatever’. So what did I really think of this album?
Its aggressive, raw and damn right sleazy in all the right places. It has a mean streak through it that is evident on all Cribs albums. Listen to ‘Cheat On Me’ which is the first single from the album. Dealing with infidelity but in an almost tounge in cheek way. Its powerful, melodic and Marr’s guitar playing is really prominent on this track. The next stand out track for me is the epic ‘City Of Bugs’. Its a song like nothing The Cribs have done before. It showcases a definite maturity in their song writing. Clocking in at over 6mins in length, its dark, atmospheric and clearly a statement of intent. Title track ‘Ignore The Ignorant’ is a cheeky, playful attack on Britain’s more narrow minded bunch. Its a contrast to the punkier sounds to some of the other tracks. Its a light relief to a ever harrowing subject matter.
I think The Cribs have made an outstanding album in the shape of ‘Ignore The Ignorant’. It’s a near perfect progression to where they are aiming to be, and that is in the hearts and minds of the people that matter. They are a peoples band and this album only proves that even more. Johnny Marr is a welcome addition but not one that is obvious when you first listen to it. Main reason being this isn’t a Smiths album! He adds subtle touches to what are already accomplished sounding songs. Its their finest work to date and an album that will be on many peoples end of year lists.
Peter Cornish-Barlow
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