Storytelling at its thought-provoking best
Cheerful bloke, Frank Turner. Hammering on his acoustic guitar like his life (or his mate’s) depends on it, this cheerful little ditty tells the story of a friend who’s dying in hospital. But don’t worry, it hasn’t turned all Morrissey on us, as it’s almost impossible to feel totally sad about the beautifully told story. There’s something relentlessly optimistic in Turner’s reminiscences and determination that life will go on. “I know I’m dying but I’m not finished just yet/ Yeah, I’m dying for a drink and for a cigarette” probably sums up the whole attitude of the record.
‘Long Live The Queen’ is a fantastic song, thoughtfully written and beautifully understated in its recording. It has all the melodic trappings of a pop record, but it’s subject doesn’t exactly make it your average easy listening. However it should strike a chord with anyone who’s lost a friend, and anyone who appreciates good songwriting.