The Rakes – ‘We Danced Together’ (V2) Released 12/03/07

Out of the atrocity of suicide bombings, political insecurity and endless cosmopolitan tension comes ‘We Danced Together’ – a gloriously hypnotic, yet, antacid song which serves to prove that there is still escape, romance and hope to be found in the city. Since The Rakes - East-London’s skinniest export - last greeted us with new material, their beloved City has joined the increasing list of global terrorism targets. Consequently, no longer is their primary concern of a twenty-two grand job – it’s now a bit more serious. “We moved to the street where they tried to hold curfew / and ran among the debris as the bullets flew,” sings a sombre Alan Donohue, whilst the rest of the band supply a mixture of haunting backing vocals and gutter guitar stabs. It’s all not as bleak as it sounds however. While the lyrics are more relevant, deep down The Rakes are still a band having hedonistic fun – see: “We canned the money like it was our last day / two fingers up to those who won’t miss us when we pass away.” The Rakes – it’s good to have you back.