Miles Kane, known for initially being in an Arctic Monkeys-like band called The Rascals, has staked a claim in the last decade as a solo artist. A handful of hit songs from his previous three solo albums easily outweigh Kane's 2022 record Change the Show, but read on if you want to find out how much you might like this record!
Like his band The Last Shadow Puppets, co-led by Arctic Monkeys' Alex Turner, Miles Kane's solo output has increasingly drifted into inspiration from 'vintage' music. When it clicks, it really works for more than just nostalgia. The bongo-driven guitar strums of 'Don't Let It Get You Down' are instantly gripping, and 'Nothing's Ever Gonne Be Good Enough' gets help from Corinne Bailey Rae for a punchy, groovy, catchy track. These tracks strut like no other, but Kane doesn't quite keep the momentum up, soon leaning into less engaging material.
Though Kane exhibits some personality on Change the Show, he is just a bit too bland half the time to make a great album. That solid opening showcases the best songwriting he can muster, but the rest does not quite make a memorable name for itself. For those who dig his retro appeal, select songs like the theatrical opener, “Tears Are Falling,” and those two previously mentioned singles will rattle around in your head for a while. Those willing to stick it out to the end might not find as many gems.
Rating: 6/10
★★★★★★☆☆☆☆
1. Tears Are Falling
2. Don't Let It Get You Down
3. Nothing's Ever Gonna Be Good Enough
4. See Ya When I See Ya
5. Never Get Tired of Dancing
6. Tell Me What You're Feeling
7. Coming of Age
8. Change the Show
9. Constantly
10. Caroline
11. Adios Ta-ra Ta-ra