Paul Weller — Heliocentric

It took the Modfather three years to cool off from his last album, the pissed-off, bombastic Heavy Soul. Time has allowed Weller to re-acquaint himself with the finely-crafted songs, ponderous chords and soulful delivery that characterized his classic first two post-Style Council solo albums. The impression that he's been woodshedding is felt in the startlingly moving tribute to the late Small Face, Ronnie Lane, on the opener "He's the Keeper," followed by the beautiful "Frightened," the first of two tracks featuring string arrangements from Nick Drake's chartsman Robert Kirby. The album continues etching fine details and at points gets bogged down in its own grandeur, a minor fault other musicians would sell their souls for. A fine return to form.

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