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Even without pressing play, the prog credentials of Mike 3rd’s new album are pretty palpable. The War Is Not Over (cut to tape only seven months after the release of the musician/ producer’s debut record) is a 21-track tribute to those who have perished in conflict over the last century.

Tellingly, the final track is titled Peace, and the last word goes to a clip of John Lennon. “I think we’re being run by maniacs for maniacal ends,” he says. War – what is it good for? Absolutely nothing, apart from inspiring this immersive, though-provoking album, it seems.

Chris Roberts has written about music, films, and art for innumerable outlets. His new book The Velvet Underground is out April 4. He has also published books on Lou Reed, Elton John, the Gothic arts, Talk Talk, Kate Moss, Scarlett Johansson, Abba, Tom Jones and others. Among his interviewees over the years have been David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, Bryan Ferry, Al Green, Tom Waits & Lou Reed. Born in North Wales, he lives in London.

Mike 3rd: The War Is Not Over

Reflective sophomore collection from the prolific Italian.