Kapranos and Co.’s effortlessly-catchy new track is the best thing they’ve done in years, and is bound to give you a spring in your step

Having been one of my favourite bands since I was quite young, I’m always going to love anything that Franz Ferdinand come up with. While I enjoyed recent single Billy Goodbye, and 2018’s Always Ascending, their latest track is, for me, the best thing they’ve released since fourth album Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action back in 2013.

The tune has an instant indie-disco vibe, like it was made for the dancefloor, while simultaneously sounding like it would go down just as well amongst excitable, boozed-up crowds at a gig or festival.

Channelling that iconic funky and sensual sound unique to Franz, the track showcases the band’s ability to always create a real sense of atmosphere in their music and reminds me why they’re always seen as a little more “arty” than some of their peers, but in the best way.

The sophistication and smoothness of the song gives it a timeless feel, sounding far from dated, despite retaining a not-too-dissimilar style to much of the band’s earlier work, such as debut album track 40’ and the groovier, dance-inspired sounds of 2009’s Tonight. Perhaps Franz have just always been ahead of their time.

The tune, along with Billy Goodbye, is one of the brand-new tracks to be featured on the band’s upcoming greatest hits record, Hits To The Head, which is to be released on 11th March. The compilation will be accompanied by UK and European live shows, including dates in London, Manchester, and the group’s native Glasgow, and will be the first Franz tour to feature new drummer Audrey Tait. Definitely not one to be missed!

Curious is out now via Domino Records.