Planet Notion - Folk/Rock/Pop

I am the music man, I come far away and I can play: Pretty much sod all; a claim I couldn’t lay on ‘That Drummer From Babyshambles.’ Planet Notion refers of course to Adam Ficek and his first solo album, released under the guise Roses Kings Castles. The album sees Ficek take up the mantel of singer, strummer and everything in between, spread across ten tracks of melodious-folk and sweet-pop. It’s an indication of Ficek’s ability away from the media storm of Babyshambles and frontman Pete Doherty; an indication that there’s more to Ficek than his Other Band. The question is: How much more? Firstly, a gentle strumming relative to the folk revival is continual throughout the album, accompanying Ficek’s whispering vocals; the lyrics ranging from longing and deep to occasionally comical. Secondly, there’s no escaping the influence of Babyshambles, particularly on tracks such as ‘Horses’ with its Dohertyesque (sic) harmonica breaks. Thirdly, if you’re after the rock-tinged sound you’d expect from the drummer of one of Britain’s most infamous bands, you’ll be bitterly disappointed. Roses Kings Castles is a completely different ball game altogether; a softer, more whimsical affair. Think a Pete Doherty acoustic-solo, minus the scuzzy lyrics and with the kind of musical accompaniment a baby would happily doze off to, and you’re someway there. You see, Roses Kings Castles’ music is a wee bit wet, kinda like Ficek the solo artist is around the ears. Don’t get us wrong, Roses Kings Castles shows occasional glimpses of magic, especially when delving into subtle undertones of soul and psychedelica, most notably on the psych-tinged ‘Fool’s Revenge’ - one of the finest tracks on the album. But as a whole, Ficek’s side-project is a bit too chirpy. I guess if you want ‘nice’ music for ‘nice’ people. Adam Ficek is your man. If you’re a miserable twat like Planet Notion, it probably won’t cut the mustard. DD

Roses Kings Castles is released on Adam Ficek’s record label, The Sycamore Club, October 6th.