The Rolling Stones have released their 23rd British album (25th American) this December. Mandy Morello grabs a whiskey and decides whether they’ve lost their mojo.

They’re back. Or were they ever gone? The Rolling Stones have blew the dust off the microphone to release their first full length album since 2005. The boys have returned to the studio and to their roots with a record full of bluesy, jazzy riffs. Each decade they’ve proved that they’re still not done with producing music. This time, the evidence comes in the form of Blue & Lonesome; 12 tracks that were speedily recorded over just three days.

What is fascinating about this album is that despite being a collection of old covers, performed by a bunch of old men, the music still sounds quite youthful. Mick Jagger is the star of the show with his easily recognisable roar. Every songs sounds energetic and natural, just like they were in their prime. After so long, and being through so much, Blue & Lonesome gives me the feeling that the four old friends have had a lot of fun revisiting that era. This, of course, comes at a time when blues is becoming popular again. But it’s as good excuse as any to hear something new from one of the oldest bands in rock ‘n’ roll.

Mick Jagger’s voice is well suited to cover these blues classics. This is proved through songs like ‘Everybody Knows About My Good Thing’, originally sang by Little Johnny Taylor. The song features the strength of his signature vocals, backed by guitar god Eric Clapton. ‘Hate To See You Go’ showcases that spunk and rhythm that made me fall in love with the band in the first place. They also have some more sentimental tracks like title-track ‘Blue & Lonesome’ in which Jagger pours more emotion into his voice than we have seen in 30 years.

Blue & Lonesome is a stand out album to add to The Rolling Stones’ extensive discography. Although it would be great to hear some original tracks from the band, it’s still impressive to see they’re still recording some great music. This is one of the best albums they’ve released in a long time.

The Rolling Stones’ Blue & Lonesome Is Now Available on Amazon