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Razorlight - Razorlight

Album Reviews

So, why if Johnny Borrell is so obsessed with himself does the album feature four men on the front and not just himself?

We've all heard about Razorlight. They're the band with the lead singer who has a Bono complex, was beaten up by Pete Doherty, has a loud mouth, proclaims himself as good as Dylan, attacks The Kooks, and has an ego that could crush a mountain.

So, why if Johnny Borrell is so obsessed with himself does the album feature four men on the front and not just himself? 'Razorlight', the band's second album, is really a statement of intent; it's Borrell reinventing his band to be a band and not just him alongside three faceless other members. This comes through in the artwork - all members having bios, and even handprints on the booklet - and even the songs themselves, with the band getting the chance to play around with different sounds and instruments.

As a result, the record is actually much better than we'd have given credit for; it's crammed with fist-in-the-sky anthems equally playable in your bedroom, or (God help us - Ed) Wembley Stadium. High points include 'Pop Song 2006' with its great title, and 'America', which Borrell sings without an American accent! Amazing!

Give Razorlight's second album a chance. You may just surprise yourself. Rating: 6/10