Fame, fame, fame. For millions of people, it seems to be an achievement in itself in this day and age. The cult of celebrity is a phenomenon that we all seem to buy into, at least subconsciously, and so the vast number of songs that are dedicated to either desiring fame or flaunting it (see 90% of modern American R&B) is hardly surprising. The Ex-Men, based in Glasgow, are the latest in this glittering tradition.
It must be said, this is lyrically more tongue-in-cheek than your average pop hit, with lines such as “I’ll be part of another class” and “I’ll have c*nt on tap”. Therein lies the rub – Famous is as British-sounding as you can get and laced in irony. Perhaps what’s most ironic is that with a ‘beat’ as catchy as this, and it’s memorable refrain, mainstream listeners are bound to love it.
Vocally, the sardonic, spoken-word vocals are provided by Jack Sims, who seems to echo Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills more than anybody (yes, also ironic). This EP also contains various remixes of the aforementioned track, and hearing Sims repeat the penetrating opening the line in various guises again and again, does reach beyond exasperation level.
The title track however is admittedly charming in its own way. With a heavy bass-line and mystical backing vocals, there are definitely traces of Underworld and 90s Electro in the mix. As a ‘remix EP’, this doesn’t really work, with Rich Bums and LOL sounding virtually indistinguishable from each other and Lounge being exactly what it says on the tin. If you treat it as intended: an irony-fused jab at the music industry that this band themselves are intending to infiltrate, then yes, it works.
Stereoboard Rating: 6/10
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
Vocally, the sardonic, spoken-word vocals are provided by Jack Sims, who seems to echo Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills more than anybody (yes, also ironic). This EP also contains various remixes of the aforementioned track, and hearing Sims repeat the penetrating opening the line in various guises again and again, does reach beyond exasperation level. 
