CD reviews: PJ Harvey

In a career spanning nearly three decades and nine solo albums, PJ Harvey has barely had a dud. In fact, quite the opposite and so it is on The Hope Six Demolition Project.

Inspired by trips to Washington, Kosovo and Afghanistan, Harvey and frequent collaborator John Parish weave a tapestry of rhythms around politically charged themes.

Here Harvey shows a keen eye for detail and a wonderful ear for eclectic melodies. Recorded in front of a live audience, Harvey suffers no ill effects from constant observation.

Easily as good, if not better than Let England Shake.

• PJ Harvey. The Hope Six Demolition Project. Universal Music.

• Four and a half stars (out of five) 

Single download: River Anacostia
For those who like: London Grammar, Rufus Wainwright, Patti Smith

- Mark Orton