If one could sum up this album by singer-songwriter Frank Turner in one word, it would certainly be “earnest.” This being the U.K.-based artist’s third full-length in as many years, the man obviously has a message to spread and he’s wasting no time in getting it out there. Bursting with substance, the music ranges from the cheeky, folk-infused punk shanty Try This At Home, to the laid back, sprawling The Road (which would, indecently, make the perfect song to play on a road trip) to the contemplative soul-searcher Journey of the Magi. This album’s intent is to take you on a journey, both on a lyrical and musical level. With equal parts social commentary and self-reflection, Frank Turner succeeds wonderfully on all levels. Check when he opens for Gaslight Anthem tonight (Thursday, Oct. 1) at the Garrick Centre.

Published in Volume 64, Number 5 of The Uniter (October 1, 2009)