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British Sea Power, 'Do You Like Rock Music?'

Well, do you? Then these U.K. lit-rockers have a few anthems for you

By Adam McKibbin, Special to Metromix

February 11, 2008

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Backstory: British Sea Power signed to Rough Trade (the iconic U.K. indie rock label) in 2001 and released their well-received debut, “The Decline of British Sea Power,” in 2003. Their rousing rock songs, quirky personas and entertaining live shows quickly won them a loyal following, who call themselves the Third Battalion. “Do You Like Rock Music?” is their third album.

Why you should care: Well, you do like rock music, right? British Sea Power offer plenty of it, wrapped in reverb and dynamic layers of guitars—and without pandering or chasing three-minute singles.

Verdict: “Do You Like Rock Music?” is the best album of BSP’s young career, though they could have lopped off the closing two songs without harm. The front end of the album is particularly strong, led by the propulsive “Waving Flags,” which occupies a similarly anthemic space as the Arcade Fire. Later on, “Atom” (a holdover from last year’s “Krankenhaus” EP) may be the fieriest and most danceable song ever inspired by physicist Niels Bohr.
 
X-Factor: BSP touring member Phil Sumner may be the most badass cornet player in rock. During a January show in Leeds, Sumner fell off a PA system, knocked himself unconscious and was taken away from the gig in an ambulance. Stitched up and sore, he returned to action a day later.