While he was riding out the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in a small fishing village in Spain, spent his time painting and singing songs, eventually doing a little busking in the streets once it was relatively safe to be out and about. The experience lit a dormant fire in the former bassist, who had pretty much put music to the side since a stint playing with in 2018. Once back in London, teamed with singer/songwriter to put together an album of songs -- -- that would tie in nicely with his busking experience. They roped in members of ( and ), drummer , former , and in the producer's chair, the legendary . , of course, provides all the bass. The all-star cast takes a very laid-back approach -- never playing two notes where one will do -- and displays a very light touch that gives plenty of room to the two singers. They pair nicely to get a sound that's a post-punk update on but also feels like two friends breezing through some favorite old tunes. All the songs are newly written, however, by , and touch on a variety of continental styles as well as some familiar areas. As for the latter, there are a few tracks like the -inspired "Lonely Town" and "Room at the Top" that blend -style grooves with "Ghost Town" vibes. 's keyboard work is -worthy, and the spare production is perfect. Alongside these tracks that hew closely to what one might expect given 's pedigree, the duo take a few cracks at romantic Latin balladry -- "Hacia Arriba" and "No Es Necesario" -- and come out winners thanks to ' vocal skill and the band's sure-handedness. They also play a few uptempo Latin numbers, take a detour to France for the winking "I've Never Had a Good Time...In Paris," and drop in a couple of songs for seafarers. "The Lighthouse Waltz" is a mournful ballad where the singers take turns getting sadder as the band whips up faded, ghostly backing; "A Sea Shanty" is a jaunty ska-inspired take on the ubiquitous pandemic meme that's saved from its watery grave by an inspired vocal from where he comes close to the fiery singer people remember from "The Guns of Brixton." It's been a long time since treaded the boards, though, and almost as long since 's voice was heard on wax. It's great to have him back, and he's found a perfect writing and singing partner in . With the band's help, they've captured a mood on that's peaceful, easy, and a treat to dip back into whenever the stress of the day-to-day threatens to overwhelm. ~ Tim Sendra