The Dirty Knobs

Wreckless Abandon

UMC/VIRGIN

Across five decades, Mike Campbell averaged two co-writes on every album Tom Petty released. On this, his first solo project since Petty passed away, it’s clear that alongside a lesser songwriter he could have had a far higher quota.

Heartbreakers fans will love Mike Campbell’s ridiculously named hobby band steps into the limelight.

Wreckless Abandon because it tells great stories. That Campbell’s singing voice is not a million miles from Petty’s is the cherry on top. And although Campbell describes this as “rougher edged” than his work with Petty, that chiefly means the guitars are louder.

From the irresistible title track to foot stompers such as Southern Boy, from sardonic humour (Sugar) to heavy blues (Don’t Wait etc), the quality never dips. There are nods to JJ Cale (Fuck That Guy), John Lee Hooker (Don’t Knock The Boogie) and, naturally, his old friend Tom, not least on the country jangle of Irish Girl. In short: 13 hugely enjoyable songs that all sound like old friends. ■■■■■■■■■■