We Are Scientists - Rules Don't Change Single Review

We Are Scientists return to the table to present their latest wares. Hoping to once again re-ignite what can only be described as somewhat of a stop-start, spluttering, career to date. Rather like some of their British contemporaries (Futureheads/Divine Comedy) We Are Scientists have never quite engaged the public imagination with any great significance. Lacking direction, focus and a certain determination has hindered their quest to popularise their musical creations. Line up changes that have included borrowing drummers from Dirty Pretty Things and now Razorlight have not always helped.

After three studio albums, and one thin compilation of b-sides and covers, We Are Scientists are looking for a kick start. They have not been short on opportunity. Playing at Glastonbury, T In The Park and Reading & Leeds. Supporting the likes of Kings Of Leon and Art Brut. Touring extensively, and included in the NME line up. Championed by many on the radio, and loved for their comical quips, We Are Scientists have had their fair share of chances, as well as exposure.

This then is their first single offering, 'Rules Don't Stop', from the forthcoming, June release, album, 'Barbara'. At 2m16s long you may have been expecting a spectacular short burst of pure pop pleasure. Unfortunately it is both short on time as well as in content and imagination. As a forerunner to the new album it does not bode well. The clipped guitar work, and all too often repeated chorus are reminiscent of Friendly Fires. Either that or a Vampire Weekend album filler. The starkest contrast to each though is the that it has neither bands energy or originality. The best seven seconds of the song are probably the opening seven containing the Prog-Rock church organ. Sadly the idea is not explored and the song fails to sparkle.

Having returned to their 'stripped back' sound, of 'With Love & Squalor', We Are Scientists have also regressed creatively. Time to go back to the lab for a little more experimentation boys!

Andrew Lockwood.