Phoenix It's Never Been Like That Vinyl LP New Sealed

	£		23
	$		30

Phoenix It's Never Been Like That Vinyl LP

Side A:

1. Napoleon Says - 3:13
2. Consolation Prizes - 3:16
3. Rally - 3:17
4. Long Distance Call - 3:04
5. One Time Too Many - 3:40

Side B:

1. Lost and Found - 2:56
2. Courtesy Laughs - 3:14
3. North - 5:01
4. Sometimes in the Fall - 5:49
5. Second to None - 3:25

"It's Never Been Like That," the third studio album by French indie rock band Phoenix, marks a significant shift in their musical direction. Released in 2006, this album showcases a more stripped-down, guitar-driven sound compared to their previous work. The result is a collection of catchy, well-crafted songs that blend indie rock with a touch of new wave, reflecting the band's growing maturity and confidence.
#### Track Highlights
1. **"Napoleon Says"**    - The album kicks off with "Napoleon Says," an energetic track with a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs. The upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it an instant standout, setting the tone for the rest of the album.
2. **"Consolation Prizes"**    - This song features jangly guitars and a danceable beat, combined with Thomas Mars' smooth vocals. The track's catchy melody and polished production highlight Phoenix's knack for crafting memorable pop-rock tunes.
3. **"Rally"**    - "Rally" slows things down a bit with its laid-back vibe and melodic guitar lines. The song's introspective lyrics and dreamy atmosphere provide a nice contrast to the more upbeat tracks on the album.
4. **"Long Distance Call"**    - One of the album's standout tracks, "Long Distance Call," features a driving beat and a memorable chorus. The interplay between the guitars and bass creates a rich, layered sound that is both engaging and dynamic.
5. **"One Time Too Many"**    - This track is characterized by its smooth, rolling rhythm and melodic hooks. The song's catchy chorus and infectious energy make it a highlight of the album.
6. **"Lost and Found"**    - "Lost and Found" showcases the band's ability to create atmospheric, emotionally resonant music. The song's haunting melody and reflective lyrics add depth to the album.
7. **"Courtesy Laughs"**    - This track features a funky bassline and a danceable groove, demonstrating the band's versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
8. **"North"**    - An instrumental track, "North" serves as a beautiful interlude, with its gentle guitar melodies and ambient soundscapes creating a sense of calm and introspection.
9. **"Sometimes in the Fall"**    - With its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks, "Sometimes in the Fall" is a feel-good track that captures the essence of the band's indie rock sound.
10. **"Second to None"**     - The album closes with "Second to None," a track that combines jangly guitars with a driving rhythm. The song's uplifting melody and positive energy make it a fitting conclusion to the album.
#### Overall Impressions
"It's Never Been Like That" is a cohesive and engaging album that highlights Phoenix's growth as a band. The stripped-down production and focus on guitar-driven melodies give the album a fresh, energetic feel. Thomas Mars' distinctive vocals and the band's tight instrumentation create a polished, yet organic sound that is both accessible and deeply satisfying.
Phoenix successfully blends elements of indie rock and new wave, resulting in a collection of songs that are catchy, well-crafted, and emotionally resonant. The album's upbeat tracks are balanced by moments of introspection, providing a well-rounded listening experience.
#### Final Thoughts
"It's Never Been Like That" is a testament to Phoenix's ability to evolve and refine their sound. The album's catchy melodies, polished production, and emotional depth make it a standout in the band's discography. For fans of indie rock and alternative music, this album is a must-listen, showcasing Phoenix at their creative best.
This album solidified Phoenix's place in the indie rock scene and set the stage for their future successes. Its timeless appeal and well-crafted songs ensure that "It's Never Been Like That" remains a beloved classic among fans and newcomers alike.