The title of Richard Thompson’s new release, Electric, hints at vitality and novelty from one of the British Isles’ best guitarist/songwriters. Forty-five years into his career, Thompson still succeeds in rendering spirited ballads, oscillating from heartfelt to ornery. Whether you are a longtime admirer, or a newcomer to his funky guitar and eclectic songwriting, Thompson’s latest release promises something for everyone.

Following the Grammy nomination of his last release, Dream Attic, Thompson has widened his range in Electric from the rushed and upbeat tempo of the opening track “Stony Ground”—whose very first tones are proof of Thompson’s legendary guitar riffs—to the more calming and relaxed “Salford Sunday.” Thompson’s trademark lyrics— poignant, yet slightly bitter— are catchiest in “Good Things Happen to Bad People.” The album is a testament to Thompson’s versatility and his unique satirical view of the most ordinary emotions.

While he may not have achieved the same level of fame as his contemporaries, Thompson has always avoided being flashy. He recently joked that with this album he may have invented a new ‘folk funk’ genre. This is not difficult to believe. His folk rock funk has both Celtic and blues undertones, which makes him stand out from the conventional rock ‘n’ roll scene. Electric lives up to this style and is a true Thompson classic, reminiscent of his days as a member of Fairport Convention and the brooding dulcet duets with his ex-wife, Linda Thompson.