Hopes And Fears - Keane > Reviews > So........no guitars?

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Standard
Quality and consistency of tracks	One hit and lots of B-sides
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Not applicable
Value for Money	Excellent

Advantages:	Fits a niche for very mellow indie
Disadvantages:	Tracks all far too similar

Recommend to potential buyers:

no

Full review

Have to admit, as a Bjork fan, I was expecting a band that was first known for their lack of guitars as being breath of fresh air and at least something new from the UK indie scene. In my opinion Keane have seriously fallen short. Keane's sound is far from simple but it does manage to draw comparisons with Coldplay and unfortunately for Keane i dont think they will ever be able to compete. The one really redeeming thing with this album is that it is really quite cheap and you dont een have to look very hard for it. Unfortunately this doesnt detract from the fact that Keane have released an album of 12 tracks, most of which around the 4min region, that are all incredibly similar. There are a couple of standout tracks, but when put into the context of ten other very similar tracks, they're brilliance soon deteriorates. Admittedly they have their own sound that will suit many people but when there are truly defining bands like Radiohead in the world I wonder why we need Keane.