Franz Ferdinand are a rock band that formed in Glasgow, Scotland in 2002. Named after Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, the band comprises Alex Kapranos (lead vocals and guitar), Bob Hardy (bass guitar), Nick McCarthy (rhythm guitar, keyboards and backing vocals), and Paul Thomson (drums, percussion and backing vocals).

They first experienced chart success with their second single 'Take Me Out' reaching number 3 in the UK charts. This was followed by their debut album Franz Ferdinand which climbed to number 3 in the UK album charts. The band have won various awards including the 2004 Mercury Music Prize, two Brit Awards in 2005 and NME named them as their album of the year.

Some four years on from the last album, You Could Have it so Much Better, fans will be pleased to hear that their new single 'Ulysses' is to be released a week before their their third album Tonight: Franz Ferdinand is available.

'Ulysses' opens with a heavy bass line and Alex Kapranos’ whispery vocals, leaving space to erupt to the chorus and have Kapranos boom out "Uylsses". With scratchy guitar riffs, distorted keyboard and synth sounds, this single shows Franz Ferdinand are indeed back and have progressed from their simple guitar-punk sound.

This is a catchy tune that won’t disappoint fans.

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Helena Rea