YEARS OF REFUSAL

Personnel: Morrissey (vocals); Jesse Tobias, Boz Boorer (guitars); Solomon Walker (bass guitar); Matt Walker (drums). Audio Remasterers: Daniel Hersch; Bill Inglot. Released in early 2009, YEARS OF REFUSAL finds Morrissey continuing in the energetic, amped-up vein of his preceding albums, YOU ARE THE QUARRY and RINGLEADER OF THE TORMENTORS, even as the former Smiths frontman stands on the verge of age 50. Although the British crooner's vocal range isn't what it used to be, he sounds invigorated throughout much of REFUSAL, particularly on the surging "Something Is Squeezing My Skull" and the sweeping "I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris," songs that showcase Mozz's ever-literate lyrics and gleefully melodramatic persona. Although longtime guitarist Alain Whyte is absent (except as a co-songwriter), his shoes are ably filled by Jesse Tobias, who joins keyboardist Roger Manning (Air, Beck) as a relatively new recruit in Morrissey's backing ensemble. Also notable is the presence of veteran punk-pop producer Jerry Finn, who previously helmed QUARRY and died shortly after completing REFUSAL, adding a poignant note to this vibrant Morrissey outing.