Franz Ferdinand returned early in 2025 with their first release in seven years. A different entity than the one that was putting out anthems in the early aughts, the band is now down to two original members – singer/guitarist Alex Kapranos and bassist Bob Hardy. New additions include guitarist Dino Bardot and drummer Audrey Tait.
Unlike the band of old, synths and keyboard from Julian Corrie dominate several songs including the catchy “The Doctor” and “Tell Me I should Stay” that starts with a gorgeous somber piano but then turns into one of the album’s most musically varied song. Writing about his Greek heritage, Kapranos sings in that language for several lines on “Black Eyelashes” and intriguingly, the song has a Greek lute that adds a middle Eastern flair.
First track and single, “Audacious” is infectious bit of indie rock and “Hooked” does double duty as a song about Kapranos’ young son while also being a call to the dancefloor. In 2025, Franz Ferdinand is a different beast but with a few more hits than misses, The Human Fear is a decent bit of slick guitar rock for fans of the Scottish band.
7/10
The Light Appears 