Joan Armatrading: How Did This Happen And What Does... (LP)

The 12-track set is the latest addition to a catalog that began in 1972 with Whatever's For Us. That LP launched the stellar career that has led to MBE and CBE awards, Ivor Novello and BASCA Gold Badge Awards for songwriting, BRIT and Grammy nominations, countless honorary titles and much more. As usual in her recent history, the 2024 album is a triumph of self-reliance, written, produced, programmed and recorded entirely by Joan herself. "How Did This Happen..." will quickly be recognized by Armatrading's legions of followers and new fans alike as a masterclass in songwriting and recording. On a bed of melodies and arrangements that are by turns immediate and subtle, she weaves a lyrical tapestry that touches on both individual and universal themes with her trademark dexterity and easy charm, not to mention two sensational instrumentals.