The Wildhearts are back with a new album, their first full release in ten years, and boy is it worth the wait. What we have here are ten joyous slabs of perfect pop rock with more harmonies per chorus than most bands could muster across an entire album.

Lead track from the album ‘Dislocated’ opens the proceedings with an urgent, punk like vocal from Ginger, this is a band that means business right from the off.  This is followed by ‘Let ‘Em Go’ which is a raucous singalong  which will have the pints flying when played live.

The album title track ‘Renaissance Men’ is a storming track built on a great guitar riff, this sounds closer to some of Ginger Wildhearts solo material of late but as that has been first rate it is not a problem. ‘Fine Art Of Deception’ has another killer chorus which will go down a storm live, there is also a hint of Ace Frehley in the guitar solo here intentional or otherwise.

Other tracks of note are ‘My Kinda Movie’ which is a full on roller coaster of a song, again driven on by a great guitar riff from Ginger and CJ. ‘Emergency (Fentanyl Babylon)’ follows a similar path, with a punky soundtrack and a big chorus complete with great harmonies. ‘Pilo Erection’ rounds things off with an almost Alvin Stardust like 70’s vibe in the verses and again cumulating in another killer chorus.

It may have taken the band ten years to get back in the studio but they haven’t disappointed with this release. Ginger and the guys have produced  another classic album which will translate perfectly into the live arena. It will provide a perfect soundtrack to many hot and sweaty nights on the band’s forthcoming tour. Don’t miss out on the party! *****

Review by Dave Wilson