'The Keys To The World'

 

 

 

 

 

We were really hoping that recent single 'Break the Night with Colour' marked a return to form for Richard Ashcroft, and thankfully it does. It doesn't quite reach the heady heights of The Verve's heyday, which might disappoint those who are still expecting a carbon copy of Urban Hymns (give it up, please!!), but unlike his previous two critically-acclaimed solo albums, this feels less self-indulgent by virtue of toning down the excessive flourishes and being a more cohesive collection of songs.
The string arrangements that have previously had a tendency to dominate his work or seem slightly contrived now sound more natural and perfectly compliment Ashcroft's soothing vocals. In fact, the whole thing sounds more relaxed. ‘Why Not Nothing’ is a great opening track and sets the tone for the first half of the CD, and although proceedings take a dip with ‘Sweet Brother Malcolm’, Ashcroft and his band soon get back on track for the remainder. Hopefully this should bring Ashcroft more of the recognition he so richly deserves.