It’s been a slow start to the year, but the first new review is a good one.

Any release from the New Model Army should always be welcomed and cherished.

Confession time first – I’ve never really taken to the last album, From Here. After the first few plays it's become one of my least played releases from NMA so I approached Unbroken with a bit of trepidation.

Nothing to fear here though. From the urgent, muscular opener of First Summer After to the bass heavy groove of Deserters this is an excellent album.

Lyrically there seems to be a bit more bite than recently. Reload open with Justin spitting the words “If I have to see another f**king Union Jack flying on the orders of the government, I’m going to be sick”. Must mention the amazing drumming on this track which is so reminiscent of the much missed Rob Heaton.

Language and Coming or Going both come with one of those huge NMA choruses designed to sung at the top of your voice among the crowd with all arms stretched skyward.

Idumea is an interesting track. Sparse and built around loping, tribal drums before swelling in to something almost hymn like with the choir of voices.  

My favourite release since Between Dog and Wolf – I so want to get out there and catch them live just one more time.