It's five years since Bill's last album of new material, in the intervening years he's released a novel and a tribute album to Mississippi John Hurt, but this album sees him return to what he does best; writing and performing his own songs.
From the start of the opening track '23rd Street' the tone of the disc is set - the 12 songs revolve around romantic disenchantment in a similar way to Dylan's 'Blood on the Tracks'.
Morrissey's weathered voice is ideal for delivering these closely observed character sketches, and while there is lots of a detail here, this is not an overly wordy disc; the economy with which he paints the pictures is testament to the excellent and intelligent lyrics.
Musically this is mainly acoustic guitar, but with colour and detail provided by the addition of clarinet, piano, saxophone and violin. The arrangements are subtle, restrained and really complement the writing - the lyrics are allowed to shine through, but there is lots to enjoy in the musical backdrop.
Those who enjoyed the recent Buddy Mondlock disc 'Poetic Justice', will find this disc a rewarding listen, as this is mature and intelligent singer/songwriting in a similar vein. 

£13.49