Pete Doherty: Grace/Wastelands (EMI / Astralwerks)
From gravedigger to rockstar, Pete Doherty has had a prolific life on and off the stage. In his debut solo album, the troubled singer-songwriter bares his soul through a variety of styles. The album opens with cool blues folk number ‘Arcadie’ before going into the first single ‘Last Of The English Roses’, which carries a dub-Clash vibe. ‘Sweet By And By’ stands out with Pete doing some neat New Orleans’ jazz-piano playing. With a little help from ex-Blur guitarist Graham Coxon, this album tells us who Pete Doherty is, or at least lends us an understanding of his troubles.