Most of us are probably only familiar with the Proclaimers in the form of 1988’s “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” but these Scottish brothers have been busy the past 21 years and have released a new album every other year since 2001. I’m not quite sure how I’ve missed them, but I’m glad that their latest, Notes & Rhymes, has made it across the pond and into my car, because these crooners are as good as ever, with heartbreaking, soul-searching songs.

The album is impeccably orchestrated with just a hint of that sexy Scottish accent to make all the girls swoon. With songs ranging from the Elvis-inspired “Notes & Rhymes” to the haunting “I Know,” the album runs like a well-oiled machine. The only downside is that the more mournful songs have a distinctly “Scottish” sadness about it that this American, at least, is finding hard to totally understand.

Grade: B+



Notes & Rhymes is currently available.