To his fans, Bonnie Prince Billy (or Will Oldham if you prefer) can do no wrong. As I'm one of them, expect some fawning in this article (although not too much, y'understand). You see, with a typical shrug, Oldham has sneaked out a new long player called ‘Ask Forgiveness’ with critics' faves, The Espers. So what's the beef?

Well, 'Ask Forgiveness' is a collection of cover versions as performed by Mr Oldham and co. The eight songs that make the tracklisting feature songs by Bjork, Merle Haggard, The Mekons and - get this - R Kelly. Yep, the grumbling country gent tackles the soul warblers' 'The World's Greatest'... but don't expect coyness and knowing winks, for with Bill it's all rustic charm and deadpan delivery. As with all of his million-odd releases, this is an exercise in excellence and able to draw in new listens... as well as keeping the rabid fanbase foaming. Go. Buy. Now.

Click here to buy the album from Amazon

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