SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: FRANK TURNER – NO MAN’S LAND 

Frank Turner
No Man’s Land 
Xtra Mile Recordings

Frank Turner’s eighth solo album, No Man’s Land, is a perfect twist of historic gems and Turner’s iconic acoustic melodies. Produced by Catherine Marks and featuring an all-female cast of musicians, this album is an ode to the many incredible stories of women throughout history whose lives and accomplishments have too often been overlooked due to their gender.

A standout track on the album, “Rescue Annie” opens with a memorable piano melody matched with subtle percussion and a taste of guitar. The lyrics illustrate the tale of a drowned virgin whose face was quite literally used “to make a body, to teach the world” (Annie’s face is now a model for an internationally used medical CPR mannequin). Ending seamlessly, the song finishes with a symphony of trumpets, percussion and lovely background vocals that flawlessly encompass the tune.

Bringing in a middle eastern touch, “The Hymn of Kassiani” also adds a unique tone to the album, telling the story of Byzantine princess Kassiani whose hymns could shake Luther but aren’t nearly as revered. With violin matched to classical guitar, this song is empowering for any woman, as the lyrics illustrate how Kassiani powerfully rejects a conceited King Theophilus in her commitment to stay celibate.

All in all, this album includes the acoustic riffs we love from Frank Turner with so much more, adding lyrics that educate fans on the stories of strong women in history. A great nod to feminist glory, everyone should listen to No Man’s Land to learn about powerful women whose stories should never be forgotten.

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