What with recently declaring that reuniting with The Strokes is "fun, but not a challenge", you might expect Momentary Masters, the third record from Albert Hammond Jr, to be a difficult listen. In contrast, it's immediately euphoric.
That's not to say, however, that this is a shamefully simple album. Much of its charm lies in its simplicity, the subtle electric flourishes and Hammond's quietly confident mastering of the microphone, with him further demonstrating what an accomplished songwriter he has become over the years. As tired as guitar music can feel recently, this is an impressive collection of songs - full of vim, and a real sense of fun.
- MORE: Read our full interview with Hammon discussing drugs, The Strokes and the future here
We've already heard 'Born Slippy' and, while it's not the Underworld cover we were hoping for, it's an enticing introduction. It's a slow burner of sorts, at odds with the frenetic urgency of 'Razors Edge' and 'Touche' that feature later, but it lays bare Hammond's dizzying knack for a killer chorus. Second single 'Losing Touch' is similarly impressive, bubbling with angular riffs and Albert's trademark howl, drenched in "end of indie disco" nostalgia that feels so familiar.
Of course, with a simple flick of his wrist, we know that he can unleash chaos too. If 'Drunched In Crumbs' dangerously resembles his parent band, 'Side Boob', the final track, is a statement of intent for the future, a glorious four minutes of soloing and frantic vocals, and leaves us pleading for Hammond's return as a solo artist sooner that you might expect.
You only have to relisten to the frazzled riffs of 'Caught By My Shadow' to know that this is an artist relishing his time away from the confining shackles of The Strokes. Brimming with confidence and sounding more assured than ever before, Albert Hammond Jr is having fun on Momentary Masters, and it's infectious.
