BUT WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF THE ALBUM?
“Tubthumping” begins with a monologue from Pete Postlethwaite’s character in the movie Brassed Off. The only two things I remember about the film are this speech and the fact that Tara Fitzgerald did not show her boobs. And the only reason I watched the movie in the first place was in the hopes that Tara Fitzgerald would show her boobs. I’m not sure why I thought it would be a possibility in the first place, but at least she showed them in Sirens, so it’s all good.
“Tubthumping” is a perfect frat boy anthem with lyrics about drinking and an easy sing-a-long chorus. They’ve probably never paid any attention to the rest of the album, hell, they probably only have it on a Jock Jams CD anyway. Yet, Chumbawamba is actually an anarcho-punk band, whose first album was titled Pictures Of Starving Children Sell Records. That fact has always made me want to check out something other than that insufferable hit, and this blog has given me an excuse to do so.
“Amnesia” has a fun riff with an okay melody. It’s not a terrible song, but I’ll probably forget it. Pun not intended. The opening drum shuffle of “Drip, Drip, Drip” made me think we were in for a cover of blink 182’s “I Miss You,” but what follows is even more insipid. Though, if Architecture In Helsinki did it, I’d probably think it was awesome. Am I hating Chumbawamba for the sake of hating Chumbawamba?
Actually, remove the pure bile that is “Tubthumping,” and you’ve got the best Architecture In Helsinki album that was recorded before Architecture In Helsinki existed. I never thought I’d be comparing Chumbawamba to one of my favorite bands in a positive light.
“The Good Ship Lifestyle” rocks and should’ve been their hit single. Damn you, Chumbawamba. I can no longer use you as a punchline for bad music. I can still use you as a punchline for bad names, though.
FINAL VERDICT: With their anarchistic leanings, Chumbawamba have publicly stated that they want you to shoplift their album. So objectively speaking, if you bought this album, you’re an idiot. But if you happen to find a record store that still stocks it, feel free to steal it. Just kidding. You won’t find any record stores out there. Download Tubthumper. Illegally. The band wants you to.
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