The solo project: all too often the opportunity for a musician to indulge himself whilst trading on a tried-and-trusted brand. The debut offering from Strokes guitarist Albert Hammond dispels these fears within seconds. Opening with a Brian Wilson-style lullaby ‘Cartoon Music For Super Heroes’, the album meanders melodically through ten perfectly-formed pop tunes.
Recorded in New York’s Electric Ladyland studios with Thin Lizard Dawn’s Greg Lattimer at the production helm, Yours To Keep is a warm, understated record that contrasts with the brashness and immediacy of The Strokes – although the NYC quintet’s sonic fingerprints are not completely absent, a guitar lick here and chord progression there are instantly recognisable.
As a lyricist, Hammond Jr. will not leave Dylan quaking in his boots, but the tales of romantic woe, hardships and urban living are refreshingly open, and reflect a sensitive side which the day job successfully camouflages.
Although proving himself a more than competent solo artist, Albert finds himself in good company here; the guest list includes Julian Casablancas, Jody Porter (Fountains of Wayne) and Sean Lennon.
Struggling to find an identity, this record is stuck somewhere between sunny west-coast Beach Boys sounds and gritty east-coast sensibilities. The resulting conflict provides a very pleasant listening experience. Rather than demanding you listen, this album invites you in – and you won’t be sorry you stopped by.