‘Rock and Roll’ is the name of the new EP from folk-punk troubadour Frank Turner and it couldn’t be a more suitable title. Looking back at Turner’s 2010 calendar it’s clear to see how this is a person whose every waking moment is spent immersed in rock and roll. Although this is his first new material to be released this year following 2009’s album ‘Poetry of the Deed’, Frank Turner has been anything but dormant. In addition to the non-stop touring that has made him the live favourite he is today, Frank has also managed to squeeze in a few dates supporting Green Day – including their Wembley Stadium show in June – as well as almost every summer festival under the sun.
In fact, those of you who were lucky enough to catch Frank at one of the said festival appearances – including any of his three Glastonbury slots - will already be familiar with the EP’s lead A-side ‘I Still Believe’. Not only that, but there’s a good chance you’re on it, as the chanted backing vocals that can be heard during the chorus were actually recorded at some of those live sets. The track itself, which is the only one here that will be included on Frank’s forthcoming album, is much more pop-tinged than a lot of his previous work. However, fans will no doubt be impressed with the familiar Turner-style melodic alt-folk that is present as always.
Despite the EP’s title, this five-track release is more about rock and roll than it actually is rock and roll. Several of the songs are probably among Frank’s most chilled-out numbers. These include the softly uplifting nature of ‘Pass It Along’, the gentle acoustic feel of ‘Rock and Roll Romance’ and the mellow and bluesy country track ‘The Next Round’. The lyrics, on ‘I Still Believe’ in particular, explore Turner’s love affair with rock music and how it still has an important place in modern life. The one exception to the relaxed theme of the EP is ‘To Absent Friends’ – a riotous rock song that nicely balances the music in the same way that has appealed to fans of Frank Turner’s previous efforts.
One of the great things about Frank Turner is his ability to make songs that are highly likeable within any musical circles. ‘Rock and Roll’ continues to prove this ability and no doubt provides an excellent taster to the new album, which is due out sometime next year.
Stereoboard Rating: 8/10
‘Rock and Roll’ is released on Monday 6th December.
Frank Turner is currently on tour in the UK.
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Despite the EP’s title, this five-track release is more about rock and roll than it actually is rock and roll. Several of the songs are probably among Frank’s most chilled-out numbers. These include the softly uplifting nature of ‘Pass It Along’, the gentle acoustic feel of ‘Rock and Roll Romance’ and the mellow and bluesy country track ‘The Next Round’. The lyrics, on ‘I Still Believe’ in particular, explore Turner’s love affair with rock music and how it still has an important place in modern life. The one exception to the relaxed theme of the EP is ‘To Absent Friends’ – a riotous rock song that nicely balances the music in the same way that has appealed to fans of Frank Turner’s previous efforts. 
