Richard Ashcroft - This Is How It Feels (Single Review)

Richard Ashcroft was the former frontman in the popular 90's British band - The Verve. Ashcroft then created a new band called RPA & The United Nations Of Sound, alongside his solo work - following the second break-up of The Verve. Ashcroft is an alternative solo artist within his own-right from Wigan, and he is also the frontman in his newly founded band RPA & The Nations Of Sound who he brought together in 2009.

Ashcroft has recently released a new tune last month on the 21st of February 2016, called - 'This Is How It Feels'. This is a teaser track for his new album which is going to be released on the 20th of May 2016 - so be aware to keep your eyes peeled!

The new track has a slow electro feel to the introduction, however it soon turns into a classic Ashcroft tune with the acoustic guitar and his captivating smooth rock voice...

"I do not own you, don't wanna control you, oh you're my vision - how foolish I've been."

You can feel a strong sense of remorse and regret within his voice when he sings this opening line, and that is one of the key characteristics that I love within Ashcroft's voice. Not only does he captivate you with his voice, but his lyrics - Ashcroft is a brilliant lyricist, and yet again this song proves that.

"You were the witness to all my darkest days, I'd said im sorry but it can't take that pain away. This is how it feels when love it gets so real yeah..."

This track tells you about love, that it isn't all about happiness - love consists of swings and roundabouts - it isn't easy. Love allows that one person to get under your skin and into your head, and loving someone has the potential to completely break you into one thousand tiny pieces. You see parts of each other that no one else is aloud to see, and you share moments together that no one else is going to experience - but dull days, follow bright days and I think that is the message that Ashcroft is trying to portray within this single.

In conclusion this is a brilliant track; it is full of depth and meaning , and it just goes to show that Ashcroft is one of those lucky artists that has still got it and has never lost it. I cannot contain my excitement for the new album release in May, but after this fantastic release - I have very high expectations! I would recommend this song to anybody, and if you like it - don't be afraid to explore some more of Ashcroft's work; whether it be his solo work, The Verve or RPA & The United Nations Of Sound! 

10/10