June 4, 2007 23:11

Franz Ferdinand make their return

Band showcase five new songs at secret hometown gig

Photo Gallery: Franz Ferdinand

Franz Ferdinand marked a storming return to their hometown tonight (June 4) by showcasing five new songs at a secret gig in Glasgow.

The four-piece, who last appeared in the UK at the Carling Weekend: Reading And Leeds Festivals last summer, treated just 700 fans to a special show at the Grand Ole Oprey Country And Western Club.

In keeping with the country theme, singer Alex Kapranos arrived onstage dressed in a black spotted neckerchief as the band rolled through new tracks 'Anyone In Love', 'New Thrill', 'An English Goodbye', 'Favourite Lie' and 'Turn It On'.

The new material marked a synth-driven change of direction for the band who have been away for eight months.

Referring to their hiatus, Kapranos said: "We've not seen you for a while. How have you been?," as he received massive cheers when the band launched into 'Take Me Out'.

Of the new material, 'New Thrill' received the warmest reaction from the fans, while old favourites 'Matinee' and '40' were lapped up by the screaming crowd.

The band later surprised the crowd during the close of their set when they invited a girl in the crowd onstage to join drummer Paul Thomson on stick duties.

The show was the first of two gigs at the venue before the band head over to New York next week to test out new material at the Bowery Ballroom.

Franz Ferdinand are also due to make an appearance alongside The White Stripes, The Police and The Flaming Lips at the Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee later this month.

Franz Ferdinand played:

'Michael'
'Come On Home'
'Anyone In Love'
'Shopping For Blood'
'Walk Away'
'Take Me Out'
'New Thrill'
'Matinee'
'An English Goodbye'
'The Fallen'
'40ft'
'Favourite Lie'
'Turn It On'
'Outsiders'