After ceasing operations with his seminal groovespacerock act Verve, expectations were high for Richard Ashcroft’s solo debut in 2000. Alone With Everybody was a bit of a sonic rollercoaster, some songs rivaling the strength of his previous band, while some tracks wallowed in a swamp of mediocrity. Now, over two years on, “Mad Richard” is back with a new album and a new single, “Check The Meaning.” The track, the first single from his upcoming sophomore album, Human Conditions, sounds quite similar to material from his 2000 album. Accompanied by strings and horns, Ashcroft sings of more upbeat subject matter than we are used to from the usually dire man. Perhaps his life with ex-Spiritualized member Kate Radley and their young child has turned his life towards the joyous. Or perhaps he’s just making a crossover attempt towards the gospel market. Who knows?
JEREMY P. GOLDSTEIN

Richard Ashcroft
Hut

1. Human Conditions
2. Ashcroft Planning Next Sonic Attack
3. Richard Ashcroft Describes Human Condition October 21
4. The Meaning Of 8
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