About this album

Sound: "A playful collision of art rock and pop sensibilities, merging witty lyrics with dynamic instrumentation."

Where they were

FFS marks the first collaborative effort between Scottish band Franz Ferdinand and American group Sparks, showcasing a unique blend of their distinct styles. Released in 2015, this album came after Franz Ferdinand's commercial peak in the 2000s and Sparks' long-standing career, allowing both acts to explore new artistic avenues together.

Why it matters

The album received positive reviews from critics, with publications like Pitchfork praising its clever songwriting and energetic sound. It debuted at number 15 on the UK Albums Chart, demonstrating a successful collaboration that bridged generations of art rock influences.

Essential tracks

  • "Johnny Delusional" — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious melody and self-referential lyrics, highlighting the band's playful approach.
  • "Dictator’s Son" — With its catchy chorus and sharp social commentary, this track showcases the band’s knack for blending humor with critical observation.
  • "Collaborations Don’t Work" — The closing track encapsulates the album's themes of partnership and irony, featuring an extended instrumental section that allows for musical exploration.

Release Date

January 1, 2015

Artist Origin

Scotland

Tracklist

  1. 1 Johnny Delusional 3:11
  2. 2 Call Girl 3:21
  3. 3 Dictator’s Son 4:15
  4. 4 Little Guy From the Suburbs 5:09
  5. 5 Police Encounters 3:10
  6. 6 Save Me From Myself 3:57
  7. 7 Sō desu ne 3:52
  8. 8 The Man Without a Tan 3:28
  9. 9 Things I Won’t Get 3:03
  10. 10 The Power Couple 3:01
  11. 11 Collaborations Don’t Work 6:42
  12. 12 Piss Off 3:55