Led by frontman and renowned narcotics addict Pete Doherty, Babyshambles' new record, Shotter's Nation, is pleasant enough, but ultimately forgettable. Doherty and company, known for their raucous lifestyles, didn't seem to arrive in the studio with the same energy.
That's not to say the album doesn't have its moments. The scratchy guitars on album opener "Carry On Up The Morning" give way to an infectious chorus. "Baddie's Boogie" has the stamp of "single" written all over it with the best riff on the album. Unfortunately, attempts to break away from radio-friendly sound result in bland, mediocre guitar rock. Sure, "There She Goes" is jazzy and "Deft Left Hand" has a bluesy shuffle. But the cuts on Shotter's Nation are planted so firmly as middle-of-the-road rock songs that they're never pulled far enough in any direction to be special. Babyshambles may dabble occasionally in other genres, but never provocatively enough.
Shotter's Nation ends up a disappointing, over-produced album - surprising considering their rambunctious lead singer/songwriter. However, the final track, "Lost Art of Murder" shows Doherty's broken-down side. He shows real emotion - for once - over an acoustic guitar. It's as stripped down and raw as the album gets, revealing potential this band has to create more memorable and daring work.
