Life Size may take a while for traditional fans of
Citizen Fish to get used to, but lyrically and musically, it shows a continued progression in this British four-piece's work. The music is groovier, the hooks are catchier, and the singer still can't pronounce things correctly from time to time, as many non-British listeners may find lead singer Dick Lukas's accent to be an interesting style of singing. Much of the lyrical content deals with political issues, specifically as they apply to the United Kingdom. While this may seemingly turn many off,
Citizen Fish approaches these topics intelligently and with important insights. For example, in a song like "Autographs," the band decries those who claim to be rebels, but follows along with mainstream rock fans and asks for autographs from the band. "Choice of Viewing" has the band asking the listener questions about becoming active in affairs instead of being passive viewers. Both of these songs, as well as many more, are pieces which fans from all across the globe can hopefully relate to and appreciate. While the sound may be more accessible to the general market in comparison to their past work,
Citizen Fish is by no means selling out. Their lyrics blatantly show that to not be the case. If anything,
Citizen Fish has produced another solid release for fans of their authentic punk/ska/reggae hybrid sound. ~ Kurt Morris