Travis - the boy with no name

Travis after nearly 4 years has returned with their fifth studio album "The Boy with No Name". The record consists of all the usual catchy guitar riffs, multiple string arrangements and poignant song-writing from Scotland's finest.

A far cry from their previously haunting "12 melodies", which got heavy criticism for not being part of the usual uplifting Travis melodies we've been accustomed to. I thought it was harsh as every band/artist is allowed time to experiment, explore and evolve. Their live performance was enthralling at that time and I'm sure it would be red-hot even now.

In any case, "The Boy with No Name" is evidence that Travis has passed that phase and returned to their upbeat best. Here's my interpretation of each track.

Starting with "3 Times and you lose" which is, in my opinion, not an ideal first track but is a Travis original. Strings in abundance reminiscent of "Sing". Fran Healy's smooth vocals fit in harmoniously.

"Selfish Jean" which should have been Track #1 is a definite high tempo catch-on number that would appeal to the masses. The stanza reminds me of The Cars in their heyday. It also reminds me of the 80's hit Katrina and the waves' "Walking on Sunshine" - the timing and meter are so similar, if not the same. Travis, in this song, experiment and kudos to them pulling it off. Not surprisingly, their second single to be released.

"Closer", the first single to be released off the album didn't appeal to me first but with like most Travis melodies, stuck in my head and is a gem. If you've not seen the video, go ahead and have a peep. You'll spot a certain someone called Ben Stiller amongst the cast. It's a silky smooth, feel-good track.

"Big Chair", my favourite for a while now, starts with a bassline more familiar to a Linkin Park intro. This is one of the darker tracks on the album. Punctuated with piano, characterized with Primrose's percussions, violin accompaniments, Healy at the forefront and subtle mixes and production and you have a wonderful product. Again, Travis push themselves out of their comfort zone and come out trumps.

Then comes the strong middle section starting with "Battleships". No shortage of melody here, Fran raises his game - and his tone admirably. Melodically, more comfortable territory for the band. Guest vocalist Julia Stone provides a cameo.

"Eyes Wide Open", another favourite of mine. First few seconds remind me of "Side" (Invisible Band) - the electric guitar in the same key and the one-beat drum beat. Catchy guitar riffs, Healy's vocal variation - a highlight for him. The chorus is brilliant with various instruments thrown into the mix but not in an obtrusive way. Lyrics are easy to memorize and sing along to. This track, like "Big Chair", is an example of experimentation gone right.

Track #7, "My Eyes" is another feel-good track and an obvious reference to Fran Healy's first new-born, Clay - a boy with no name for the first few weeks of his life (also the album title in case you hadn't noticed). Trademark guitar riffs, piano accompaniment, gorgeous melody and lyrics. The chorus is beautiful and Healy proclaims honestly: "Ya ya ya, you got my eyes. And we can't see what you'll be. You can't disguise. But either way I will pray you will be wise. Pretty soon you will see tears in my eyes". Yup, I'm pretty sure Clay will appreciate this first song about him.

The rest of the album is not of the high standard as the first 7 tracks but is worth a mention.
"One night" is sweet and filled with hope and candour. Yes, surely you can't undo your mistakes but each new day is also a chance to start fresh.

"Under the moonlight" is very un-Travis in some ways. They sound like an American pop-band eagerly trying to impress teenage radio listeners. However, it has a cute melody and a message to folks in love. The highlight here is KT Tunstall's background vocals in the chorus. Not a Travis classic for the form and production are derivative.

"Out in Space" is a typical end-of-album track. It's slow, light on arrangement but has a more-than-usual chorus. An explosive bang in one channel accompanies Healy's "out in space." Worth noting a trademark Travis bridge section in minor key as well before the end of the track (a la "Last laugh of the Laughter" from The Man Who).

"Colder" starts off neat and clean. The chorus is very lively and filled with interesting pieces of instrumentation and arrangement. Subtleties are a definite plus point here. Distorted guitars, synthesizers and harmonicas also make an impression.

Last track, "New Amsterdam" is a simple acoustic track with occasional piano and police sirens! Not a bad way to end.

Oh wait, after 3 minutes of silence, there's a bonus track! I'll call it "the song with no name". A trademark Travis track with the riffs and melodies. Definite influence of "the Beatles" present in this track.

With all the comparisons made to fellow Brit-poppers, Coldplay and Keane, Travis deserve their own niche and a right to be up there with Britain's most recognized artists. After all, they spawned the introduction of Coldplay, Keane and Snow Patrol. Somehow Travis has not been held in the same esteem, but I'm sure they couldn't care less. Enjoyment in making music is paramount on their agenda. That the latest record is a blend of tried-and-tested and experiments is testament to their growth in the last 10 years.

Rating 8.5/10 - a must for Travis fans and a good place to start for upcoming Travis fans.