A band who could give Destinys Child a few pointers on survival, the trials of the Charlatans would have sent lesser bands packing. But as the old saying goes, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger, and continuing an upward trajectory of brilliance kicked off with 1995's self titled fourth album, followed by 'Tellin Stories' and the assumed apex of marvellousness that was 1999's 'Us & Us Only', 'Wonderland' finds The Charlatans positively superhuman.
Opener 'You're So Pretty' We're So Pretty' sets the tone, a surrendering-to-the-funk swagger, followed by the firin' boogie of 'Judas' a self explanatory title for a song about their dodgy accountant (now esconed at her majesty's pleasure for half-inching several thousand from the books). Already there's more focus, and even signs of the odd chorus something that's not been top priority in the past on the life-affirming single 'Love Is The Key', which encapsulates their sexed up, Highway of funk-rock direction. Even as we speak, indie-discos across the land are binning their worn copies of 'Weirdo' and 'The Only One I Know' in favour of it.
A highlight of highlights is the stately shuffling country-soul of 'A Man Needs To Be Told' which mutates into an organic drum'n'bass/ gospel breakdown. In short, it's genius. With Tim operating with new added falsetto think Curtis Mayfield/Kurt Wagner rather than the Gibb Brothers - tracks such as 'I Just Can't Get Over Losing You' and 'Wake Up' are lifted into more confident, free and funkier dimensions.
'Right On' grooves in a curious Bowie Sound & Vision fashion makes a great partner for stand-out 'Ballad Of the Band', eulogizing this unique band's story and looks further on to the future with the telling couplet 'Through the darkness/ There is a hope'. Add to that the frankly saucy I-have-the-horn 'Is It In You?', and sweet finale 'Love To You', you have possibly
the best set of tunes this year.
'Wonderland' is magnificent. An album full of cracking tunes, potential singles and a new found lust for life from one of the best bands of the last ten years. Superb.
by Ian Wade