Britain’s Frank Turner is back with his fourth studio album, England Keep My Bones; and it proves to not only be his best yet, but also should be a serious contender in any 'album of the year' polls. It is an album chock full of musical brilliance backed up by frequent moments of lyrical genius. It’s a record that has a multitude of styles all at play, but despite that there is a still a very real sense of cohesiveness, both musically and thematically. There is a wonderful balance of the traditional elements of the folk genre, of which Turner inhabits to some extent, and the other more contemporary influences of punk and rock and roll.

England Keep My Bones opens with "Eulogy", a sparse horn salute of sorts followed up with a fierce and passionate refrain from Turner, beginning what becomes a recurring theme and message throughout the album and within Turner’s earlier work. Up next is the very single worthy "Peggy Sang the Blues", a standout track on an album full of great songs, it’s been released for about a month or so now, and even after repeated listens it has lost none of its charm and appeal. "Rivers" brings back the traditional folk feel, with some exquisite guitar work and some wonderful imagery.

"I am Disappeared" is one of my favourite tracks on the record, full of great instrumentation and some brilliant lyrics and interesting delivery. "English Curse" is perhaps the bravest track on the album, an acappella track which sounds like something written in the 15th century let alone the 21st. It is also a track which serves in a sense to reaffirm Turner’s roots; it is one of a number of tracks on the record that grounds the album on English shores. "One Foot Before The Other" sounds like no other track on the album, here the punk influence is unmistakable, heavy guitars and hollered refrains pepper the track, matching the subversive quality of the lyrics.

"If Ever I Stray" has a great rollicking feel to it, and listening to it you quickly realise this is one of those songs you will be shouting along with the rest of the crowd. It’s also one of those incredibly catchy songs; you’ll have the tune stuck in your head for days, which is no bad thing. "Wessex Boy" is another one of those tracks which highlights Turner’s roots in that part of the country, you get the feeling that it’s one of those songs which anyone can take inspiration and meaning from, whether you are from Wessex, Washington, or New South Wales. Homecoming and loss are not themes exclusive to England, the things Turner sings about are true around the world.

"Nights Become Days" is a beautiful track, plaintive guitar plucking and a nice dose of stunning lyricism; one of those songs you feel could bring the room to silence when played live. "Redemption" is great introspective song, with a wonderful sparse intro, which builds and builds. Vocally it’s a sterling performance, fragile when needed, but also strong and commanding. "Glory Hallelujah" is one of those songs that has the potential to get an artist into trouble if taken the wrong way, however here there is no sense of malicious intent, there is a real celebratory feel to the track, for me it continues the themes begun at the outset, ‘it’s up to you and it’s in your own hands’, don’t rely on God, go out and make your own destiny.

England Keep My Bones is a great album, though those of you familiar with Turner’s other work, its greatness was never really in doubt. It is potentially one of the best albums of the year, but also it’s the album that should surely cement Turner’s position as one of the premier songwriters in the UK. It is a record full of great musical moments, intelligent and witty lyrics and a great positive message.

Review Score: 9.5/10

Image: Richard Johnson for NME