British singer / songwriter Polly Jean Harvey is an artist who chooses continuous change throughout her career. For example, (2004) rugged, mini-clad slut effortlessly transformed into the serene, ghostly lady of (2007). Her eighth album does not seem to be a new look, but it must be that of a serious singer / songwriter of a dozen eccentric British folk songs. With this she scolds (aided by
… regular workers and ) against the freak folk. She sometimes seems to consciously choose an almost childish and crooked approach to her singing. The interpretation of the primary, acoustic songs also sounds far from traditional due to the use of wind instruments (the 'attack' trumpet in The Glorious Land) and even a reggae sample in Written On The Forehead. Another wonderful album by the inscrutable Harvey with the theme of her unconditional love for her homeland, for better and for worse. (MR)more