Noel Gallagher’s new single AKA…What a Life received its first airplay during an ad break in England’s Euro 2012 qualifier vs. Bulgaria.

The song is the soundtrack of a lengthy 1:30 Vauxhall advert celebrating the car company’s new sponsorship of the England football team.   It’s a clever, memorable advert and What a Life does fit very well with its overall mood and feel. Unfortunately, as a standalone single, it does flatter to deceive somewhat.

Free from the shackles of Oasis, Noel is clearly trying to press on and do his own thing.  And while his first solo studio release does seem to be going down a different path, this particular track isn’t one that jumps off the page.

That said, the single is pleasantly atmospheric with a simple, yet effective rhythmical guitar line, complete with soaring vocals and a catchy sing-along chorus.

It’s cordial and inoffensive to the extent that it’s very difficult to dislike. However, it’s also quite one-dimensional and one paced meaning it doesn’t stand out much either. It’s a track that could have been written by numerous indie bands and would probably go largely unnoticed by critics and fans alike without a well-established name behind it.

A few hardcore Noel Gallagher fans will probably love this song, but for most it has the sense of a release that is perfectly listenable and palatable but also quite ordinary and pedestrian.

Our Rating
5/10