Laments

Two Richards are releasing 60s influenced rock albums this month. One of them (Warren) has struck gold, while the other Dick (Ashcroft) will undoubtedly get all the attention for a barely buffed turd. Our man here , a fully paid-up touring member of Spiritualized and a revered songwriter and producer, has a genuine belief in the redemptive power of rock music, taking in gospel, protest folk and country soul. This long player is a sampler woven from many strands but the unifying influence (claimed by many, deserved by few) is that of Big Star. It feels like Alex Chilton passed through the studio on his way out of this world, just to keep an eye on proceedings.
John Doran
8/10 NME