'Can't Touch Us Now' is basically Madness being Madness; don't expect any huge changes on this record. Feeling less distinctive than both their 2009 opus and 2012's 'Oui Oui, Si Si, Ja Ja, Da Da' (that was four years ago? Good grief), it still has the fun touches the band are known for but feels a little like they're on autopilot.
The album opens with the titular track that mixes in upbeat ska rhythms, guitar tuning sounds and Suggs' familiar vocals, and has enough hook in the chorus to work. Second track 'Good Times' thrusts some saxophone central to the mix on a track that opens like a cross between 'Baggy Trousers', 'Hit The Road Jack' and something melodramatic from the thirties. With some nicely introspective lyrics, it's a strong follow-up.
'Mr Apples' naturally deserved lead single status. Upbeat, catchy, and with a big chorus, this is Madness on top form thanks to the perky rhythm, pop sensibilities and relentless energy.
'I Believe' mixes in some well written words on the subject of belief with some ragga piano, circus hooks and vocal production effects. There's a Western feel to 'Grandslam' which feels like the album's next single, and is Madness doing something a little different to the expected formulae, even if the ska influences are still all present and correct.
'Blackbird' is more spoken word than song and though it has its moments as it builds to the chorus, feels like too confused a piece and the imagery of the titular character feels a little regressive and pedestrian.
'You Are My Everything' feels at times like a slowed down 'NW5' but is a ballad with a surprising amount of musical bite even if the lyrics can come across as a bit Hallmark.
The 'I've Got A' hook of 'Another Version of Me' makes this short track really stand out and it's one of my favorite on the album whilst the sunny samba feel of 'Mumbo Jumbo' has a real fun, catchy, swagger to it. 'Herbert' flits between 2009's 'Sugar and Spice' and something a little more mystical, the cheeky chorus a winner amongst its intriguing production vibe and musical efforts.
'Don't Leave the Past Behind You' is a perky, brass-led piece that lifts the spirits whilst '(Don't Let Them) Catch You Crying' is a catchy mid-tempo pop number.
Opening to the sounds of arcades machines and amusements 'Pam the Hawk' is a gentle, swaying story-led track that switches between sombre monologue about Pam to gentle, saxophone-led piano breakdowns that compliment each other well.
'Given the Opportunity' is a perkier affair that is a good little pop song whilst 'Soul Denying', the longest track on the sixteen-track strong album is a more rambling affair but it does ascend into a real anthem as it peaks after five minutes. Closer 'Whistle in the Dark', once more channeling the circus feel, is a strong closer.
Though 'Can't Touch Us Now' feels at times like Madness on autopilot, "being Madness", it's a fun, upbeat, perky album with some stand out tracks, and it doesn't feel like an hour passes from start to finish. (7/10)
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