Single Review

The Captain is the third single to be taken from Biffy Clyros upcoming album; Only Revolutions (released 9th November). It offers a different sound to previous singles, Mountains and That Golden Rule. The Captain has a more melodic sound compared to Biffy Clyros usual crashing rock anthems. Its not as catchy as their previous more rocky singles but it presents an orchestral sound coupled with singer Simons gritty vocals to give fans more variation in their sound, proving that the Scottish trio have something new to offer with each album.

The Captains lyrics appear to tell a story of love and conquering, if only they were easier to decipher. Biffy Clyro are known for their obscure lyrics and The Captain does nothing to differ from this fact. After a couple of listens you will be singing along, though unaware of what exactly you are singing about, moving with the marching beat.

Despite this, I cant seem to get excited about this latest single. It lacks the more angst filled lyrics and crashing guitars and drums we are used to from Biffy Clyro. Singer Simon himself admitted in a recent interview that he was inspired by his wife when writing their new album, and the lyrics indicate this. Loyal long term Biffy fans will no doubt be disappointed with their more manufactured, radio friendly sound which appeared when they released 2007 album, Puzzle. Previous single That Golden Rule gave fans a treat of the original Biffy Clyro sound and earned them a well deserved Top 10 chart spot. But despite the popularity of the more hardcore rock sounding single, the band has returned to a more safe sound. Although I dont think The Captain will be as successful as That Golden Rule, it offers fans a fresh sound and a little variation to what we expect, and will no doubt earn itself a spot in the Top 20.