ALBUMs

This is the third instalment of B-Sides and rarities from Frank Turner, named as such after the American punk band Black Flag's 1983 release 'The First Four Years', who are one of Frank's influences to his punk/folk crossover sound. He has come a long way since touring alone with an acoustic guitar, singing protest songs about Margaret Thatcher, but despite more recent years commercial success (such as playing at the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympics), there is still an edge to his now more polished sound. 

This release is the follow up to his 2013 'Tape Deck Heart' which was his biggest to date, seeing Frank and his band - The Sleeping Souls play a huge US and UK arena tour in support of the album. 

The Third Three Years has a much more stripped back sound, as with the two previous B-Sides albums - The First and Second Three Years. Many of the songs are acoustic with a couple of additional instruments in the style of Frank's early work, almost reminiscent of Bob Dylan or Billy Bragg. There is also a mix of full band songs, demos and live songs, with a wide array of covers including Queen, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Paul McCartney, Noel Coward, Townes Van Zandt, The Weakerthans, Tony Sly and Cory Branan.

The album also features a number of guest collaborators (which you can see in the track listing below). It wraps up this era of his career nicely, ending with some alternative versions of new songs such as The Way I Tend to Be, and classics like The Ballad of Me and My Friends for older fans. This is a must have for anyone who wants to get a further insight into Frank Turner, and a nod at some of his influences.  

Toby @tobycampen

8/11

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