I am ecstatic to report that The Charlatans have put out a very fine piece of work here in Simpatico. It is an excellent example of band growth and rebirth, and I am proud to stand behind it.   Full text...

The band remains unafraid to experiment outside the genres where they’ve found the most success and, as a result, they may yet have a few good years left in them on the British charts... but, okay, I admit it, it’s a long shot at best that this will change their fortunes here in the States; still, at least it can be said that it’s not for lack of solid material.  Full text...

Simpatico is probably the most Charlatans-ish Charlatans record in half a decade, bringing back so much of what we've always loved the band for… poppy tunes with plenty of brilliant keyboard and guitars over a solid rhythmic groove that leads the supercharged vocals of Tim Burgess to a higher plain.  Full text...

Despite being the unluckiest band in rock since Def Leppard, though, they continue to soldier on. And, with their 10th release, they affirm the notion that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Not to mention groovier.  Full text...

There's no questioning that's its one of their weaker efforts.  Full text...

With Simpatico, the band have returned more to their roots, cranking up the guitars on album opener "Blackened Blue Eyes" in a nod to 1995's self-titled barnburner, as well as evoking the pianotastic hook bonanza that was Tellin' Stories.  Full text...

In theory, it should be good news that they’re back yet again, and that their newest recordings are actually going to get a US release. But too many excellent theories fail to survive even a first encounter with reality, and Simpatico is just the latest to bite the dust.  Full text...