Richard Ashcroft is back, and he’s reminding us exactly why he’s one of Britain’s most enduring voices in modern music. After supporting Oasis on their stadium reunion tour across the UK – and soon to follow them on their South American dates – Ashcroft has returned to the spotlight with Lovin’ You, his seventh studio album, blending introspection, romance and the occasional musical curveball.
Opening with lead single Lover, a reimagining of Joan Armatrading’s Love and Affection, the album immediately strikes a balance between familiarity and reinvention. Ashcroft’s voice is as emotive as ever, warm and textured, giving the track a cinematic quality that draws listeners in instantly. It’s the perfect opener: recognisable yet fresh and ridiculously catchy!
Track two, Out Of These Blues, surprised me with its heartfelt, bluesy tones – the lyrics cut deep, the strings swell just enough to tug at your emotions and it sets a contemplative tone that threads through much of the album. Ashcroft’s ability to convey intimacy and vulnerability remains unmatched; decades on, his voice still carries such weight and authenticity.
Then there’s I’m A Rebel, co-written with Madonna collaborator Mirwais, which leans into a disco-electro vibe – a playful departure from the expected acoustic and indie-rock moments. It’s a reminder that Richard Ashcroft is still willing to experiment, blending past sensibilities with modern influences without ever losing his identity.
Throughout Lovin’ You, there’s a careful oscillation between britpop-esque guitar-driven tracks, acoustic ballads and subtle electronic flourishes. Oh L’Amour and Heavy News provide nostalgic nods to Ashcroft’s days with The Verve, yet the album never feels like a retread – it’s a matured, self-assured evolution. The title track, Lovin’ You, samples Mason Williams’ Classical Gas, weaving delicate instrumental flourishes with Ashcroft’s soulful vocal delivery, cementing the album’s emotive core.
Out Of These Blues and closing track Fly To The Sun highlight Ashcroft’s gift for storytelling, pairing personal reflection with soaring melodies, while tracks like Lover and I’m A Rebel inject light, fun energy that keeps the album from ever feeling heavy. The fusion of acoustic intimacy with indie-rock swagger, soul and subtle electronic beats makes this record feel like both a warm sunset and a late night under a disco ball – comforting, expansive and emotionally charged.
Lovin’ You is a record that confirms Richard Ashcroft is operating at his own pace and on his own terms. It’s familiar yet adventurous, soothing yet occasionally surprising and above all, it’s a showcase of a veteran artist who continues to explore the breadth of his craft while staying true to himself. For fans of Ashcroft, The Verve, or anyone who loves emotional, guitar-infused indie with moments of sparkle and danceable joy, Lovin’ You delivers the goods.
Lovin’ You is out now on all platforms.
2025 Dates
November 8: Co-op Live, Manchester
2026 Dates
March 24: Utilita Arena, Cardiff
March 26: M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool
March 28: The O2, London
March 31: OVO Hydro, Glasgow
April 2: First Direct Arena, Leeds
April 4: Utilita Arena, Birmingham
April 6: Utilita Arena, Newcastle
July 2026 Outdoor Shows
July 17: Alexandra Palace Park, London
July 24: Englefield Estate, Pangbourne, Berkshire
July 25: Ludlow Castle, Ludlow
