There’s a distinctively hyperbolic, mythic re-imagination of urban life which lies at the heart of Famous’ vision, and this is the central tenant of debut mini-album ‘England’. Frontman Jack Merrett finds it therapeutic; using theatricality and the emotional authority of art to navigate the chaos of anxiety.
Merrett’s performance across the record determines this, chiefly owing to his by turns resigned, matter-of-fact and desperate vocals, reminiscent of a Heroes-era David Bowie or Pavement’s Stephen Malkmus. The band don’t chase subtlety per se. Their renowned live performances are huge, brash affairs; recalling the sad grandeur of a Vegas-era Elvis. The music is, nonetheless, thoughtful and surprising, as shown by the six self-contained yet interconnected tracks that make the whole.