The Verve - Fourth

It is 11 years since The Verve's classic Urban Hymns and their new album Forth was eagerly awaited by the loyal hordes.

The Manchester band has served up a range of tracks, rekindling their familiar soul-Britpop, Stones-esque sound on some, but also throwing in a few edgier, psychedelic tracks.

Sit and Wonder is a simmering blues track, with lead singer Richard Ashcroft making a welcome return with his dreamy vocals and the talented Nick McCabe on top form again in the second track Love is Noise, which drifts smoothly along as only the Verve know how to.

The funky bass lined Columbo and Appalachian Springs finish off an unspectacular, but worthy return for the band.

The music scene has changed since the Verve's last offering in 1997, but Forth will certainly fulfil those adoring Verve fans.