Atwood Magazine interviews Alex Kapranos, the lead singer of Franz Ferdinand, about the band's new album ‘The Human Fear’ and its profound exploration of the concept of fear itself.
Streaming: ‘The Human Fear’ – Franz Ferdinand
Experiencing the triumph of overcoming fear is thrilling. I believe this album affirms life because defeating fear is a celebration of life itself. It encapsulates the most vibrant aspect of existence.
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“Take Me Out” has become a cultural staple. Anyone who was awake in 2004 can instantly recognize its iconic guitar riff, especially in settings like sports events, dive bars, or action-packed video games. The single launched the Scottish quartet Franz Ferdinand to fame, marking them as one of the most prominent names in alternative rock. Over the last two decades, they have released several albums, formed a temporary supergroup, and experienced lineup changes. Yet, Franz Ferdinand has managed to retain their distinct sound. As Kapranos reflects, “I’ve seen artists I admire shift to match trends, which often leads to mistakes. The artists with enduring careers seem fully comfortable with their identities.”
So, what defines Franz Ferdinand? Is it their dedication to crafting danceable tunes, or their knack for writing catchy, gritty hooks? With their latest album ‘The Human Fear’ (set to release on January 10, 2025, via Domino Recording Company), their exploration revolves around a singular theme. Each song addresses fear, revealing the complexities of daily life through both ordinary and remarkable narratives.
Kapranos shares that he was seeking something in his songwriting. The track “Tell Me Should I Stay” starts with a piano introduction reminiscent of the Moonlight Sonata, progressing into a lively celebration enriched by tambourine and snare drum. The verses carry a menacing undertone (as echoed in “Everdaydreamer”), which transitions into a bright and airy chorus. “Night or Day” stands out as one of the strongest tracks, buoyed by its straightforward lyrics and syncopated rhythm. New band members have contributed fresh influences, notably keyboardist Julian Corrie.
Franz Ferdinand's examination of these themes feels both new and timely as it delves into risk-taking and finding an optimal creative space. Kapranos emphasizes, “I don’t want to be predictable.”
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:: Stream/purchase ‘The Human Fear’ here ::
:: Connect with Franz Ferdinand here ::
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“Audacious” – Franz Ferdinand
A DIALOGUE WITH FRANZ FERDINAND Atwood Magazine: If Wikipedia is accurate, it has been 22 years for Franz Ferdinand. Do you ever feel challenged to surpass your own or others' expectations for the band?
Alex Kapranos: I don’t find it particularly difficult, but it did take me time to come to terms with it. Reputation in a creative sense doesn’t really concern me. I don’t think about competition; it’s more about identity. It’s important to be comfortable with your own voice. I've observed artists I admire change themselves to fit trends, which often results in failure. The musicians who have lengthy careers seem secure in their identities. Beck has maintained his sound for thirty years. I feel at ease releasing a record that is unmistakably a Franz Ferdinand project. I feel I have both nothing and everything to prove. I need to show something with my new material. When you embrace your identity, it's liberating. I know who I am and intend to explore new facets of that identity.
This album, regardless of the time or number of albums released, still resonates as distinctly Franz Ferdinand. How do you ensure your music stays authentic?
Kapranos: I think the guiding principle is the same as with all rewarding aspects of life: your instinct. When you appreciate someone, your intuition simply knows it. Analyzing why you’re drawn to someone often strips away the romance. Similarly, in writing, arranging, and performing music, if something doesn’t feel right, it’s time to reassess.
Are there any songs from the past you think wouldn’t meet this authenticity test now?
Kapranos: In early 2016, after the Republican nominations, we penned “Demagogue.” At that time, it seemed that no one took a particular candidate seriously. While my political views remain unchanged, I feel the musical landscape has shifted. I’m inundated with politically themed songs, and many of those messages strike me as obvious and simplistic. I prefer to engage with nuances and subtleties in writing.
I feel at ease releasing a record that resonates as a Franz Ferdinand project. I feel both nothing and everything to prove. I have to show something with my new work. Embracing your identity is liberating. I know who I am and I aim to explore new dimensions through that voice.
Before 2016, it was challenging to find politically-themed music in the mainstream, apart from hip hop or occasional anthems. When I think
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Atwood Magazine engages with lead vocalist Alex Kapranos to explore Franz Ferdinand’s new album ‘The Human Fear’ and its comprehensive examination of fear.