Richard Ashcroft - Keys To The World (2025 Re-Issue)

This is a pre-order item and is expected 27th June 2025.

Originally issued on Parlophone in January 2006, 'Keys To The World' was Ashcroft's first release in four years, coming soon after he had guested with Coldplay at Live 8 - Released at the height of CD's popularity, 'Keys To The World' is available on vinyl for the first time and is pressed on audiophile 180g vinyl in gatefold sleeve.

Chris Martin introduced Ashcroft singing 'Bitter Sweet Symphony' at Live 8 saying it was "probably the best song ever written, and here's the best singer in the world." 'Keys To The World' was a very welcome return, reaching No 2 in the UK charts and being certified Platinum.

The album certainly has a spring in its step – 'Why Not Nothing' blasts the album off, with strings and saxes over a northern soul beat. With its sample of Walter Jackson's 'It's All Over', 'Music Is Power' is one of Ashcroft's best songs – another where he celebrates the command that popular music has had over him. The catchy, incessant 'Break The Night With Colour' – the album's first single – placed him back in the UK Top 10; with it vocal samples and ominous string bed, the title track is powerful, topped with a passionate vocal. 'Sweet Brother Malcolm' is one of Ashcroft's most poignant numbers, inspired by the flowers and tributes that amass on suburban lampposts after a tragic occurrence.

TRACKLISTING

1. Why Not Nothing?
2. Music Is Power
3. Break The Night With Colour
4. Words Just Get In The Way
5. Keys To The World
6. Sweet Brother Malcolm
7. Cry Til The Morning
8. Why Do Lovers?
9. Simple Song
10. World Keeps Turning

PRODUCT DETAILS

Artist:  Richard Ashcroft
Label:  Proper Records
Condition:  New 
Genre:  Indie, Rock & Alternative
Format:  Vinyl LP
Cat Number:  UMCLP115
Released:  27th June 2025