Franz Ferdinand Brings Their Iconic Sound To Stirling

★★★★☆ (4/5)

FRANZ FERDINAND PERFORMING AT STIRLING’S ALBERT HALLS
PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN

The second gig in Franz Ferdinand’s ‘Live in Scotland 2024’ mini-tour, saw them rock up in Stirling and the packed Albert Hall’s crowd eagerly awaited their arrival. The anticipation was palpable - this band’s iconic sound defined an era, and their devoted fans were ready to be swept up in the energy again.

As the lights dimmed, the opening chords of "The Dark of the Matinee" rang out, instantly igniting the crowd. Alex Kapranos' unmistakable vocals soared over the thunderous rhythm section, every note dripping with the band's signature swagger. The audience responded in kind, bouncing and singing along with huge enthusiasm. This was followed by another favourite, shimmering disco-inflected "No You Girls” which was greeted with the same fervour.

Franz Ferdinand has a new album “The Human Fear” which is scheduled for release next January. It’s their first in 7 years and they let the crowd be some of the first to hear a few of the tracks. “Audacious” was the first of these. Kicked off with a sharp riff by Dino Bardot, featuring a hooky riff from Julian ‘Miaoux Miaoux’ Corrie and a shout-out chorus, it feels like a song the band will play a long time into the future.

What followed was a career-spanning set that showcased the band's remarkable versatility. From the angular post-punk of "Michael" to the classic “Do You Want To”, Franz Ferdinand seamlessly traversed their discography, each song eliciting a rapturous response. Guitarist Dino was in fine form, his riffs slicing through the mix with precision. The rhythm section of Bob Hardy and Audrey Tait is razor sharp but of course, it is frontman Alex who commands the audience’s attention, demanding their involvement and energy.

“Take Me Out” was a predictable highlight, its iconic opening riff sending shockwaves through the room as fans surged toward the stage, fists pumping in the air. It’s a track that never grows old. One of the band’s first songs, it still ignites the kind of euphoria that leaves the room electric. Hardy and drummer Audrey Tait locked into a perfect groove, allowing the song to build and explode in that unmistakable Franz Ferdinand style.

Two tracks “Evil Eye” and “Build it Up” were given their debuts. Both held their own, well received by the Stirling crowd.

This energy reached a fever pitch during the encore, as the band launched into crowd favourite “Jacqueline”, a new track “The Birds” and capped with a euphoric rendition of "This Fire". Kapranos prowled the stage, his distinctive moves whipping the crowd into a frenzy. By the time the final notes rang out, the crowd was left breathless, having been treated to a masterclass in live performance.

As the band took their final theatrical bows, it was clear that Franz Ferdinand's ability to craft infectious, intelligent pop music remains undiminished, and on this evening in Stirling, they proved once again why they are regarded as one of the most vital and influential bands of their generation.