Morrissey and Mongrel are among the latest offerings to be assessed by the Shropshire Star’s Andy Richardson.

Rock
Morrissey: Years Of Refusal (Polydor)
It’s a fascinating fact that Morrissey’s solo output far outstrips that of his former band The Smiths.

Though he will forever be remembered for his days with that era-defining Mancunian quartet, his solo work has been almost as impressive.

In recent years, he’s been in impeccable form and Years Of Refusal is a classic. Morrissey believes this tenth solo album is his strongest work to date and who are we to argue? ***

Hip Hop
Mongrel: Better Than Heavy (Wall Of Sound)

The British supergroup formed in 2008 by former Arctic Monkeys bassist Andy Nicholson have made a studding debut.

Featuring members of Reverend and the Makers, Babyshambles and London rapper Lowkey, from the Poisonous Poets, this debut is overtly political and was recorded at a time when the BNP were winning votes and the city’s new mayor was using odious words like “Epicaninnies”.

Mongrel are a Public Enemy for the 21st century, celebrating much that is good about modern Britain but also recognising its flaws. ****

Soul
Laura Izibor: Let The Trust Be Told (Physical)

The piano-playing, Dublin-born soul singer Laura Izibor is aiming for the stars.

Her impressive debut heads straight for territory mapped out by Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, Roberta Flack and other soul icons.

Izibor has powerful, honey-tinged vocals that have set fans’ and critics’ hearts aflutter. Having been tipped by both Hot Press and Rolling Stone as one of the world’s artists to watch, Izibor has already raised expectations.

They’re pretty well met on this engaging and impressive debut. ***