Over five decades since Cock Sparrer first trod the boards, they’re finally hanging up their boots with a last tour and this, their final studio album. And what a journey it has been. But like a fine wine, as the years have passed, Cock Sparrer’s sound has matured and developed a life and identity of its own. 

For me, Hand On Heart serves as a superb career retrospective. As the album unfurls, the songs sound like they are inspired by the different eras of the band – I can hear nods to Two Monkeys, Guilty as Charged, and Forever which is pretty cool, as those records are the band’s unsung heroes even though they might not be the first choice when you ask someone what their favourite Sparrer album is.

With that in mind, let’s talk about a couple of highlights on the new record – Mind Your Own Business reminds me of A.U. from Two Monkeys and shows that the band aren’t resting on their laurels – there’s still plenty of spit and sawdust firing the band. Rags To Riches has got a similar charm and feel to the Guilty As Charged era which is one of my favourite Sparrer releases. 

I Belong To You is a huge song, with a killer video that features a small tribute to my friend Eric (RIP), and is, for me at least, a real moving moment. My Forgotten Dream might be their new Out On An Island, with an added string section that ups the game a notch or two. 

From beginning to end, you can hear little nods to their illustrious past, with Daryl Smith occasionally adding a bit of argy bargy if you know what I mean. And so, all that remains is to sit back, grab a beer and thoroughly enjoy (what might be) the last ten tracks of prime Sparrer. An incredible way to end an incredible journey…  Tom Chapman