Heaven And Earth

Just like the 17a, when one least expects it, along comes a new album from the Murphy Bros. and their rhythmic cohorts. Like the bus, sightings are always welcome: this band always have something worthwhile to say. Eleven songs sit comfortably here, each approaching a state close to perfection, with subjects as varied as international terrorism and fractured love affairs to engage the listener.

The opening track, ‘Sunlight’, has already tickled the palates of US audiences,having featured in a HBO series, The Mind Of Married Men. A light,chugging rhythm underpins this low-key musing on mortality, replete with quiet harmonies, and sets the tone for the rest of the album.

There’s no bombast here, just 10 stories – and one short instrumental – for boys, girls and presidents of superpowers alike. If Bush listens to no other ears, he should take heed of Voice On The Radio, and then decide whether he wants to obliterate Iraq. "We watched a roman candle burn the day the world refused to learn".If guys from Newry know this much, what the hell is wrong with you, George?

Lest one imagines that it’s all dark and gloomy – it isn’t at all. Listen to ‘U Make Me Feel’, three minutes and 53 seconds that celebrates the redemptive value of love with great power.

Heaven And Earth may not set the world’s charts on fire, but I strongly suspect that these guys don’t care anyway. Welcome back, gents.