Keys to the World

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. 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 its 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.