Music > Album Reviews

Del Amitri - Fatal Mistakes

28/05/21

Almost twenty years have passed since Del Amitri released their last studio album in 2002, so expectations were high before playing this one, but I have to say, it’s been well worth the wait. Once you press play, you’re instantly greeted with that trademark sound, providing nostalgia and familiarity in equal measure. I have to say that this is a most welcome return.

Possibly one of Scotland’s most successful bands, they go about their business with minimal fuss. There are no bells and whistles, it’s just good, honest music and it stands up well against anything they’ve released previously, and possibly surpassing a few of them, it really is that good.

It’s a lot more than just a trip down memory lane though, because the new tracks are obviously inspired by the situation that has affected us all over the past year or som. They’re full of angst and attitude, but often with a little satire here and there. You must tip your hat to the Scottish sense of humour, which is apparent throughout.

Any fan of the band is going to lap this up because it’s exactly what they’d expect and they’re going to buy it no matter what, but what if you’ve not heard them before? It’s a rock album and not dissimilar to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers if I had to make a comparison, and of equal quality to boot. Justin’s vocals are a little different to previous albums, being a little older these days, that’s to be expected, but the music has been adapted to account for that, which means that the overall sound of the album has been adapted to match.

Like a fine wine, Del Amitri has matured somewhat, and improved with age. Is this another “Waking Hours?” Absolutely not, but it’s equally as good, and if there’s any justice in the world, this album should reflect the monster success it brought. There’s not much else to say, except that “Fatal Mistakes” is a fantastic album, and will undoubtedly please the existing fanbase, but more importantly, it could introduce a whole new generation to their music. As that popular meme says, “shut up and take my money.”

10/10