The very notion that The Libertines would release a stunning fourth album in 2024 is something that would have seemed ridiculously over-optimistic, if not utterly preposterous, twenty years ago… writes John Kearns.
However, here we are, face to face, with an absolute triumph from a band that sounds confident, deliberate, and united. Pete Doherty, Carl Barat, John Hassall, and Gary Powell can indeed be proud of All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade, a record that manages to combine a healthy dose of The Libertines’ early swagger with a more thoughtful and measured approach to their craft. Tracks such as “Shiver” and “Songs They Won’t Play On The Radio” are soulful and reflective and exemplify the band’s newfound coherence, perhaps as friends as much as band members.
Carl Barat explains, “Our first record was born out of panic and disbelief that we were actually allowed to be in a studio; the second was born of total strife and misery; the third was born of complexity; this one feels like we were all actually in the same place, at the same speed, and we really connected.”
Before you start thinking that The Libertines have gone all ‘radio friendly’ and ironed out the rough spots, have no fear. There are plenty of masterful manic moments on this record to delight those of us who love a Libertines’ chaotic belter.
The record shoots out of the blocks with “Run Run Run,” an energetic runaway romp reminiscent of The Clash (no surprise there). This was, of course, the first trailer single from the album and one that will now undoubtedly become a live favourite.
“It’s about being trapped and trying to escape your dismal life, a bit like the man in Bukowski’s ‘Post Office’. The worst thing for The Libertines would be to get stuck in a ‘Run-run-run’ rut, constantly trying to relive our past,” declares Carl. Although I think that musically, most Libertines’ fans would always be quite happy to have the band indulge in a few more punkish throwbacks.
The frantic and defiant “Be Young” ticks that box and manages to combine furious verses with a beautifully chilled chorus—another highlight and indication that the band still has something to say about a little social insubordination. That non-conformist streak would seem to still be evident but in a more contemplative and passive manner.
“Mustangs” and “Night Of The Hunter” also deserve a nod as stand-out moments on a record that has turned out to be an unlikely masterpiece that defines a new era for The Libertines. The band have of course famously endured more than their fair share of drama and despair within their ranks, experiencing break ups, break downs and break –ins (the notorious Carl’s flat episode).
Emotional ticking time bombs, torturous tabloid tales, and torched teddy bears may have been replaced by TikTok dances, ever-growing hat collections, and hotelier duties, but All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade has proved that The Libertines are still the genuine article. Fans will no doubt be buzzing over this unexpected gem.
Pete Doherty has the last word….
“We’re over the moon, and the ball is in the back of the net and I’m chuffed for the lads! I feel like we’ve completed a cycle of some kind as a band, and finally now we can add these songs to the set list, because we’ve got some bangers in there. Now we’ve opened the hotel and used the studio ourselves and it’s all worked out – more Libertines records? I should hope so!”
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