But why would most people assume it would've been their debut? The follow up was equally, if not more successful, and spawned some very strong singles. Maybe it's the dreaded difficult second album syndrome. It could be, although sales would suggest otherwise.
No, I think it is just the simple fact that the impact of the debut was so startling that the second, despite being a solid follow up, was never going to create that buzz that only a new band can have. And it was a great buzz. A new fresh take on punk. Punk styling but with a bit more flair. And melody. And the ability to play their instruments. Not that I'm not partial to the odd punk tune.
(Whilst I'm thinking about it I have to ask - why is it that our friends north of the border can consistently create interesting guitar pop? Franz Arab Teenage Camera.)
It must be tough for bands who have such an influential debut album. Sure they will be pleased that the long hours in practice rooms, studios and stages have finally paid off but now what do they do? They can't recreate the buzz. It's a one off deal. Never to be repeated. So they either make that experimental electronic concept album and disappear up their own backsides (hello Radiohead) or knuckle down and make a follow up that's as good as possible. And that's exactly what FF did.
So when the follow up to their debut was released I rushed out to the nearest Safeway Supernarket (oh how times have changed!) and picked it up, along with a pint of milk and some jammy dodgers, and brought it home to play.
In one fell swoop FF proved that the first was no fluke. It is very much business as usual; tight rhythms, angular guitar and rapid fire lyrics. No difficult second album here..... no that would have to wait for the third album.
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