Charlatans U.K.: Us And Us Only : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

The Charlatans' sixth album, Us and Us Only, isn't as instantly catchy as the band's previous efforts; rather, it's the slow-burning work of five men who have injected new life into their sound. The result is often stunning: Think Exile on Main Street remixed by the Chemical Brothers. Kicking off with the murky, groovy haze of "Forever," Us and Us Only deftly melds folky guitars, subtle beats and a moody organ. The latter comes from new keyboardist Tony Rogers, who has ably assumed the leading role of founding member Rob Collins (killed in a car accident in 1996). The Stones-y "A House Is Not a Home" is a swaggering stew, while the record's highlight, "The Blind Stagger," begins as a light toe-tapper before graduating into a breathtaking chorus. The Charlatans still haven't found widespread stateside success, but Us and Us Only solidifies their place as one of the most consistent English bands of the last ten years. (RS 835)

MATT HENDRICKSON