For anyone who like Status Quo, the last five years have been anything other than dull. Reforming the original “Frantic Four” for some memorable, triumphant gigs, making a rather dodgy film (Bula Quo) as well as releasing one of their best studio albums in years (Quid Pro Quo) with their current line-up. Given the recent creative diversity, not many things, short of an experimental drum ‘n’ bass project, would shock fans at the moment. As for “Aquostic”, an album of stripped-back, acoustic versions of some of Quo’s best songs, as well as some deeper foraging into their back catalogue, the only mildly shocking thing about the release is the cover art, featuring the Quo showing some skin. With a massive twenty-four tracks, it is almost surprising that “Aquostic” is consistently listenable and enjoyable throughout, but there is no question that this album would appeal to fans only. However, as surely only Quo fans would buy this, the limited appeal is a moot point, much like every release by Rossi and Parfitt’s group; the critics may sneer, but the fans love them.
As well as unplugging the Telecasters and getting the acoustic guitars out, many of the songs are enhanced by string arrangements to a truly touching effect. Songs such as “Rock ‘n’ Roll” shine much more brightly than the original and their début single “Pictures Of Matchstick Men” sounds utterly splendid, given a chamber-pop pomp. Other songs get a more folk-flavoured accordion-laced treatment, such as the jaunty “Burning Bridges”, which is such great fun that they’re missing a trick if they don’t shoot a morris dancing themed video. Other highlights include a dark, stomping “Don’t Drive My Car”, a wonderfully silly “Paper Plane” and the Cajun spiced “Down Down” which is surely intentionally humorous. Their playful treatment of “Caroline” and Whatever You Want” as well as many other of their best-loved songs shows that there are no sacred cows here. This album is just brimming with the personality of the band and it’s one of the most endearing characteristics of this charming album.
Of course, there will be people who hate this album, even Status Quo fans; specifically the ones who are very much lovers of the early hard rock/blues era of the band and who were in seventh heaven when the Frantic Four reformed. That said, I imagine the vast majority of the fans will happily go with them on this slight detour, given the fact that the project has been realised so well, with this record delivering an equal measure of fun and poignancy. The fact that there are nearly seventy-five minutes of music here and yet there aren’t any moments which leave you reaching for the ‘skip’ button is a testament just to how well executed the whole album is. Although they’re great (often underrated) musicians, Status Quo don’t take themselves too seriously and, when you’re listening to this, you should really embrace this for what it is, an excellent piece of diverse entertainment and a creative re-imagining of some of their most enduring songs.
Status Quo’s “Aquostic” is out now on the Rhino label, available from all good music stores.
Andy Sweeney, 21st October, 2014.
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