Released: 27/11/20
Nominated for the 2010 Mercury Prize, Wake Up the Nation is a bold, experimental shift for Paul Weller. Ditching the pastoral tones of previous work, the album embraces jagged, urban rock with nods to Diamond Dogs-era Bowie and post-punk energy. Songs are short but adventurous, full of abrupt shifts and psychedelic flourishes. Highlights include a fiery reunion with Bruce Foxton on “Fast Car / Slow Traffic” and the chaotic pulse of “7&3 Is the Striker’s Name” featuring Kevin Shields. A restless, urban record brimming with urgency and invention.