Keys to the World


Keys to the World is the third studio album by English singer-songwriter Richard Ashcroft. It was released 23 January 2006, reaching number 2 in the UK Albums Chart. Ashcroft worked on the album at State of the Ark studios and Julian Kershaw wrote string arrangements for some of the songs later recorded by London Metropolitan Orchestra. Strings are featured on 8 songs on the album which also features electric viola on some tracks – played by Bruce White. The engineer/producer was Chris Potter.

Release and reception

The album received mixed reviews from music critics. According to critic review aggregator Metacritic, the album has received a score of 52/100, based on 19 reviews, indicating mixed or average reviews.
The album was certified Platinum by the British Phonographic Industry, selling more than 300.000 copies.

Track listing

All songs written by Richard Ashcroft, except where noted.
  1. "Why Not Nothing?" – 4:09
  2. "Music Is Power" – 3:58
  3. "Break the Night with Colour" – 3:56
  4. "Words Just Get in the Way" – 4:53
  5. "Keys to the World" – 4:42
  6. "Sweet Brother Malcolm" – 4:51
  7. "Cry Til the Morning" – 5:04
  8. "Why Do Lovers?" – 4:45
  9. "Simple Song" – 4:05
  10. "World Keeps Turning" – 3:55

    Bonus track (Japan)

  1. "Keys to the World"
  2. "Break the Night With Colour"
  3. "Why Not Nothing?"
  4. "Words Just Get in the Way"
  5. "Break the Night With Colour"

    Release details