Originally published by L.S. Media. November 30th 2009.

The new studio album by Welsh rockers Stereophonics, Keep Calm and Carry On should be just another album title in the annals of rock history, a very good record that deserves much plaudits and admiration but has been unfairly been dismissed by some music critics. However the band deserve sincere praise for their skill and tenacity in recording an album that is eclectic, heart-warming and full of hidden back stories which seem very personal to the band .

From the opening track, She’s alright vocalist Kelly Jones gives his usual competent performance and reaffirms his place as one of the best singers and songwriters of his generation. This on its own would not normally be enough but the musical arrangements throughout the album bring out the best in his own unique style.

This album also marks the album debut for guitarist Adam Zindani and although he has been around the band for a while now, he has fitted in perfectly to the way the band works. The other members of the band have also fitted in nicely with Adam, so much so that on songs such as 100 M. P. H, it seems as though he has been with the band since the heady days of their formation.

Other stand out songs on the album include the almost whimsical Beerbottle, which benefits from the seemingly introverted look at Kelly’s childhood and the truly sensational Could You Be The One.

An album that gets better each time you listen to it and one that the band should feel proud to have made.

Ian D. Hall