The Wake

Is Fran Healy depressed? The sound of his band Travis is an embodiment of catchy, melody-driven and upbeat choruses, but in their latest album 12 Memories, their distinctive sound is blended with mellow and sadly-depressing lyrics. Battling feelings of jealousy towards mainstream Britpop bands like Coldplay, Travis contently accepts its demotion with a grin. In the opening song “Quicksand,” frustration as a second-rate band is accompanied by an orchestra of violins and cellos. “Take me away take me away/ Or I’m never gonna get away/ But it makes no difference to me/ It’s just the sound of one more rock star bleeding.” Healy is feeling victimized, yet disregards the criticism. Travis touches upon controversial themes such as war and the events of September 11 in “Beautiful Occupation” and “Peace the F*** Out.” Two incredible songs, built on passion and frustration, which represent a world run by media and politicians. Healy silently purrs, “Now I don’t know what you’ve been talking about. There’s too much s*** pouring out of your mouth.” With 12 short songs that seem to finish before they even begin, Travis has matured away from wishy-washy lyrics of a perfect life. 12 Memories presents a lyrically improved band, whose lullaby melodies never get old.