7/10

While releasing your latest album without warning has been one of the most popular marketing gimmicks of the last few years, there are very few artists that are prepared to do it and then not charge a single penny for it. But nonetheless, this is exactly what US indie rock outfit Wilco did with their ninth studio album 'Star Wars'. And while free albums may usually just be an excuse for a band to unload some unwanted material, this new work from the Americana stalwart looks to be quite the opposite.

With 2015 marking the 20th anniversary of the group's debut album 'A.M.', Wilco have clearly treated this new work as a celebration, and it's that attitude that comes across on this new record. Harking back to their irreverent beginnings, the release has this notably 90s vibe to it, giving it a short, sharp, shot of nostalgia with a contemporary twist. Showing that Wilco still have the right attitude when it comes to creating new and engaging music that their fans would just love.

It is certainly a varied and eclectic release that will prove extremely favourable with long-time fans of the band. Overall, 'Star Wars' sounds like a group that want to keep themselves fresh while also maintaining their core sound, and it seems they have pulled this off with gusto.