Waterloo To Anywhere

Dirty Pretty Things' debut has engendered a somewhat tepid response, especially from the British press-probably because the Libertines' implosion left such a scar on the psyche of Anglos and Anglophiles. But Carl Barat's new project confirms the "sensible Lib" brought as much to his old band as glorified former mate Pete Doherty. The scathing "Waterloo," in large part a flipped bird to Doherty, is a good old-fashioned mod-punk'n'roll record-nothing more, certainly nothing less. Scorchers like "Deadwood" and "You F*cking Love It" have immediate impact, while more self-searching entries like "Last of the Small Town Playboys" and "The Enemy" are genuine growers. Plus, the swaggering delight "If You Love a Woman" proves Barat can channel Mick Jagger as well as he can Joe Strummer. A perfect summer blast of piss and vinegar.

By Susan Visakowitz

Source:Billboard