Strange days indeed, man. On Monday, The Libertines staggering, breathtaking Second Album goes on sale in the UK (it's released the next day in the US), a record fairly certain to at least debut in the top 5, and most likely debut at No.1. Meanwhile, co-frontman Pete Doherty faces a possible jail sentence (his second in a year) on account of a "possession of dangerous weapons" charge. The prospect of one of the most recognizable individuals in British music sitting in a jail cell whilst the other members of his band celebrate the success of the forthcoming album seems very likely.
Doherty hasn't played with The Libertines for some time now, with no-one entirely sure about what might happen in 24 hours time, never mind the band's foreseeable future. His musical partner, Carl Barat, maintains that until Pete makes a genuine attempt to ween himself off crack cocaine, he won't be a part of the band. Doherty, meanwhile, states that he will only kick his escalating habit if invited back into the fold.
It's an infuriating, heartbreaking situation.
The Libertines' bassist, John Hassall, has spoken to Tim Cashmere of Undercover Media, and the video interview can be viewed HERE. Hassall discuses the recording of the new album, produced once more by ex-Clash hero Mick Jones, whose raw, intuitive grasp of "the moment", as opposed to striving for the most technically accomplished take, went some way towards ensuring that Up The Brackett was such a slap in the face. Needless to say, the ramshackle energy of the debut is in evidence throughout the follow-up.
In the video, Hassall also discusses the "cult" following the band have acquired. Among the more high-profile proponents of the guerrilla gigging movement currently administering a much needed kick in the nuts to London's music scene, The Libertines habit of following shows with impromptu sets in car parks, or even band member's flats, not only serves to provide fuel for the band's bohemian ideologies, but also goes someway towards explaining the level of devotion the group have acquired in the space of two years.
Check out Hassall's Interview, and pick up a copy of The Libertines the first chance you get. Honest to God, there won't be a better record this year. And lets hope to God they manage to stick it out. The loss of The Libertines would be nothing less than a soul-destroying catastrophe.
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Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
thanks Duker, very journalistic of you!