Frank TurnerBe More Kind

Frank Turner has pulled on the politics pants in his seventh album Be More Kind, a pretty self-explanatory title as to what the singer-songwriter hopes from the world. Though the English bard has largely avoided any socio-political commentary in recent years, it seems like he just couldn’t help but jump on the bandwagon–and it’s taxing.

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His folk-gospel opener Don’t Worry is a plea for change and a reminder we need human connection–yes, we know Frank, we don’t need to be told by every other bloody musician. Turner then dives into a one-man mission to address Brexit and Donald Trump and other complex right-wing ideologies. As I said, taxing.

Turner has moved into new territories sonically and his vocals are perhaps at the best they’ve ever been.

The album’s title track is Turner back to his folk roots, but ye gods is it preachy. So let’s erase the words and focus on the melodies, and hey, it’s damn near enchanting! Turner has moved into new territories sonically and his vocals are perhaps at the best they’ve ever been. His politics aren’t hugely controversial, they’re repetitive. You might call it refreshingly honest but in an age where everyone and their dog is nothing but honest, we can only focus on the passion and execution of Be More Kind.

Frank Turner gets points for this album because it’s Frank Turner and he’s one of the best, but perhaps he’s the best because his focus has largely been on music and not madness. Something to think about.

STANDOUT TRACKS: Little Changes, There She Is, Don’t Worry
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