After they were quickly proclaimed the 'most important band of their generation' in England with their debut album Up The Bracket (2002), The Libertines decided that such a band should also follow the 'sex, drugs & rock and roll' principle had to live. It almost spelled the group's downfall as singer / guitarist Pete Doherty became addicted to crack and heroin and was constantly in the news for
… theft, violence, imprisonment and failed drug addiction attempts. Doherty put his friendship with Carl Barrat, also singer / guitarist and with Doherty responsible for the songs of the group, to the test. The recordings for the second CD did not go smoothly, to say the least, the presence of two security guards in the studio was necessary due to fights. The fact that this second album has been released may therefore be called a miracle. The troubles of the group can be heard in the rattling garage rock with unsteady vocals, yet the songs are often cheerful and melodic and they certainly have something catchy. The future of The Libertines depends on the condition of Doherty, who has been kicked out of the group as long as he hasn't kicked the habit, but at least they've made two nice albums. (IV)more
