Babyshambles - Blinding EP

by Anthony Strutt

published: 11 / 11 / 2006

Label: Regal
Format: CD

Surprising, excellent first major label release for Pete Doherty's post Libertines band, Baby Shambles

Review

Pete Doherty's post Libertines band finally leave Rough Trade for a big label. Babyshambles are just contracted at the moment to EMI for a one off EP so we will have to see if Pete behaves himself. EMI should be pleased with ‘The Blinding’ though as it is all very fine material which shows that he is as least still capable of producing the goods when he tries. The main track, ‘The Blinding’, is a cockney delivered modern classic in the making. It is catchy, very cheeky, and stunning. Now if only the boy wonder can stay off the drugs long enough…. ‘Love You But You're Green, is a Portobello Road reggae-based beat-flavoured number, slowly delivered and wonderfully so. ‘I Wish’ again is reggae flavoured with a ska rhythm, and has a timeless quality to it. ‘Beg, Steal or Borrow’ comes next. Given that he he has spent time inside, Pete would know about those, wouldn’t he ? It is the only track with a Libertines feel, and comes across like a cross between the Specials ‘Ghost Town’ and the Housemartins ‘Happy Hour’. It is very minimalist, great fun and truly wonderful. ‘Sedative’ ends the EP. It is elegantly paced and sheer class, and features superb songwriting and content. The boy has done good then in the end.