With the Libertines on course to finally release their third album this year, it seems odd timing for guitarist Carl Barât to be resuscitating a solo career that appeared to be over five years ago. His recently convened backing band, the Jackals, bring impressive energy to this punk-inspired set. However, even when they change into a lower gear, there is little of the subtlety or melodic nous that can make Barât’s collaborations with Pete Doherty so beguiling – for the most part, these songs just sound as if they’re being bashed out at a slower tempo. It makes for a solid, rather than spectacular, comeback.
