MORRISSEY World Peace is None of Your Business

It seems that years in the musical wilderness benefit Morrissey. World Peace Is None Of Your Business, the first album from the former Smiths frontman in five years, is his best album since 2004’s You Are The Quarry, which also came after a lengthy absence. The first half of his 10th record in particular boasts great lyrics and is unusually adventurous for his solo work, with highlights including the title track, Staircase At The University and Smiler With Knife.

8/10 – Rob Barker

JASON MRAZ Yes!

On this fifth album, the San Diego-based troubadour teams up with long-time friends and collaborators, like female rock-folk band Raining Jane on backing accompaniment throughout the 14 tracks. Fans who enjoy hits such as I’m Yours and Lucky won’t be disappointed with the likes of Love Someone, Quiet, Best Friend and 3 Things, covering themes such as love and spirituality, all delivered with his usual jaunty acoustic guitar.

7/10 – Shereen Low

RICHARD THOMPSON Acoustic Classics

Now 65, Richard Thompson OBE’s place in the pantheon of folk greats is assured, and he clearly believes the time is now right for a leisurely musical stroll through his impeccable back catalogue. Best known as a founder member of Fairport Convention and for his work with ex-wife Linda, Thompson is a virtuoso guitar player, as is amply demonstrated by these acoustic versions of some of his best-known songs. The album opens with the seminal I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight, but it is on the wonderful versions of 1952 Vincent Black Lightning and I Misunderstood that the London-born musician’s outstanding talents are fully revealed.

8/10 – Kim Mayo