From their chosen acronym on in, wit abounds on this collaboration between Scots art rock outfit Franz Ferdinand and Sparks, the duo of brothers best known for their arch, pioneering synth-pop of the 70s. FFS even features a song called Collaborations Don’t Work for one. The fit between bands is seamless, though, with songs such as Dictator’s Son sounding rather like 1974 Sparks hit This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us crossed with any number of Franz Ferdinand offerings. Dodge the mountain range formed by all those raised eyebrows and there are some good songs in here – Little Guy From the Suburbs is a picture of musical and emotive restraint, despite its references to Sartre, and Things I Won’t Get – a list of impossible desires and true love - is as rueful as it is calm.
