Heliocentric

"Heliocentric" contains a remarkably sturdy and varied set of songs and performances. Sadness and regret are scattered throughout the album, but there's also humor, affection, and, ultimately, optimism. Strings grace several songs, plus there are extended jams so psychedelic they're almost prog. There's the wonderfully jaunty acoustic number "Sweet Pea, My Sweet Pea" and "A Whale's Tale" is his own spin on a sea ballad. Those ever-changing moods keep the record fresh and interesting: it grows stronger with each spin. It's certainly a terrific record that signals a creative rebirth of the classic Paul Weller.