ALBUM REVIEWS
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ALBUM REVIEWS |
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Richard Ashcroft
KEYS TO THE WORLD PARLOPHONE 23.01.06 @www.vanguard-online.co.uk
On Saturday 2nd July 2005 200,000 people in Hyde Park, London saw the greatest rock and roll comeback in history! Ok, perhaps I am exaggerating a tad (Let’s not forget Pink Floyd performed later that day) but by performing “Bittersweet Symphony” with Coldplay as his backing band, Richard Ashcroft choose the perfect moment to return to the public consciousness. He continues his resurgence with Keys to the World, his first release since Human Condition 4 years ago. In a recent interview, Ashcroft, as understated as ever, stated his sole ambition: “I wanna be a great English songwriter. I don't want to be anything else, I realise that now. That's my job, that's my duty, to write tunes, not to fuck around.” This desire has seen Ashcroft produce some of his finest solo material! On opening track ‘Why Not Nothing?’ The Croft’s arrival is heralded with saxophones and a thumping drumbeat; he then proceeds to enlighten the listener of the religious hypocrisy which supports the case for atheism. It is clear from ‘Music is Power’ that Ashcroft is fully aware, and comfortable with the influence his music has, proudly singing, “Let the song carry you on and keep you strong!” Whether it is sumptuous strings, gentle guitar or powerful percussion (Nice alliteration!) this album caters for all dispositions. Fret not those of you worried that Sir Richard might have lost his ear for the anthemic; ‘Break the Night With Colour’ and ‘Keys to the World’ are masterful. As are ‘Words Just Get in the Way’ and ‘Why do Lovers?’ which give the ideal platform for his rasping vocals. While Richard Ashcroft may never be able to fully step out of the shadow of his previous work, if he continues to produce as delectably varied music as this he will be well on his way to becoming a great English songwriter – that’s if you don’t consider him one already! www.richardashcroft.co.uk
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