Here We Stand (CD)

When Scotland's the Fratelli's debuted as a fully formed and proficient band in 2006, it was if they dropped from out of nowhere. Their follow-up, Here We Stand, is equally surprising and full of the kind of super-fun alternative rock and roll for which they have few peers. No doubt it will create a similar sensation as their first album, Costello Music.

The Brothers Fratelli, vocalist, guitarist and pianist Jon, bassist Barry and drummer Mince, make a joyful sound marked by quirky, power-pop melodies set to energetic and sometimes mischievous music ("A Heady Tale"). The pranksters work in the great tradition of brotherly rock bands like the Ramones, tricksters 10CC and glam bangers like Sweet. A sensation in their native UK, the Fratellis have yet to conquer the Americas so fully, but that seems to be in the cardsﾅ

"My Friend John" is brother Jon's pumped up semi-autobiographical tale of himself. The aforementioned "A Heady Tale," has some classic rock energy behind its subtle roaring power. "Shameless" is one of those big stomping anthems in which the Fratelli clan specialize (and which has just a hint of the Kinks behind it); it's a kind of self-referential handclap to themselves.

"Look Out Sunshine!" has the joy of the Brit Pop days fuelling its story -- something Oasis might've done. "Straggler's Moon" quotes "The Girl Can't Help It" while it's an entirely different sort of song -- more breezy and bit less bodacious.

"Tell Me A Lie" is a about the lies told in the press, especially by rock bands, in particular the Fratellis in their early days. It features a sort of Dylan speed rap fused to a big conventional rock riff.

"Mistress Mabel" features some rockin' keyboard banging, old school variety and an upside down, inside out lyric which suits the spirit of its pure rock joy.

"Babydoll" has the feel of one of the Beatles twangier songs. Nice. "Acid Jazz Singer" is a cautionary tale about life in the big city. This is one of the Fratellis' shiner moments, while "Lupe Brown" shimmers and shakes to a '60s groove.

The album finishes with a low-key piano tune, "Milk And Money." Judging by this finely composed new direction, the Fratellis sound like they could be moving toward breaking some new ground on the follow up to Here We Stand. But till then, the Fratellis remain a brotherly band, in absolute good standing.

By Daisy Duarte