Trapped and Unwrapped

This train is free wheelin/there is love on board, exclaims Chris Thompson (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) on Lullaby No. 2, one of the most electrifying numbers on Friends Agains debut album, Trapped and Unwrapped. The unbridled glee in which those lyrics are sung could also epitomize the LPs rollicking mood. The lyrics are not always decipherable, so there might be stinging words hidden beneath Friends Agains otherwise sunny melange of funk, new wave, and country, but why ruin a good party? The band plays with contagious exuberance. Lucky Star moves briskly, buoyed by funky riffs and sprightly piano. The soulful guitar pop of Lullaby No. 2 is reminiscent of fellow Scottish band Orange Juice; it is unbelievably catchy. Sunkissed soars with its sparkling synths and jaunty rhythms. Every track on Trapped and Unwrapped is embedded with keen hooks. Thompsons voice could be mistaken for David Bowies; however, none of Bowies work in the 80s was this invigorating. Surprisingly, two of the albums best songs are among its slowest. The jangly State of Art illustrates adolescent infatuation with a poets ear for dialogue while the moving Old Flame glides over a breezy, laid-back groove. Who needs the old flame/when Ive got you, baby/burning so bright, Thompson croons, his voice emitting the warmth of a summers day at the beach. Now imagine an entire LP like that. ~ Michael Sutton