I've already reviewed a previous album, 2009's Heavens to Betsy, and the subsequent one, Whip Jamboree from 2013. Tomorrow We'll Be Sober is just more evidence that I really like Blackbeard's Tea Party.

The York-based English band features Laura Barber on fiddle and cello, Dave Boston on assorted percussion, Martin Coumbe on electric and acoustic guitars, Yom Hardy on cajon, tambourine, cymbals and drums, and Tim Yates on bass guitar, double bass, trombone and melodeon. Everyone sings, too, to give the songs a blast of vocal rowdiness.

Paul Young, on acoustic guitar and melodeon, still leads the band vocally (he would be replaced by Stuart Giddens in time for the band's next recording), and he does a fine job here. But it's the package that sells this album; combined, they are formidable indeed. Even if you've heard some of these songs before, you'll love what the Tea Party does with them.

The whole album is a rousing grand time, best enjoyed with a pint in your hand and the volume cranked. The band's brand of aggressive folk rock grabs you by the ears and doesn't let go!

[ visit the Tea Party online ]