Most albums hint at something new: A new chapter in the band’s history? A new direction? A new evolution of the band? While this is all very exciting in theory, the sad reality when it comes to The King Blues’ latest offering is that it doesn’t signal the start of something, it signals the end. ‘Long Live The Struggle’ is the band’s final farewell, and what a farewell it is.

Kicking off proceedings with a dubstep-infused, high energy number ‘We Are The Future’, the message is clear: this album is big, bold and different. Despite its undeniable catchiness, the lyrical content is still quintessentially The King Blues. Contrasting in sound, ‘We Are What We Own’ encompasses the acoustics the band have become synonymous with, mixing angry vocals with a soaring, optimistic sing along.

‘Modern Life Has Let Me Down’ blows all other choruses out of the water, it’s huge and catchy as hell. Closer ‘Keep The Faith’ is more brooding than most, yet amidst a sombre feel there is a strong sense of hope for the future, a sense of self-belief -”I believe that I ain’t gonna fall…” It’s all there: acoustics, ska, rock, dubstep, anger, angst, hope – this is the last we have of The King Blues and its simply huge.

‘Long Live The Struggle’ is exciting. Listening to a new album knowing that the band are no more can be a little disheartening, but that shouldn’t take away from the final gift to fans they’ve given. Their departure leaves not only a quality album, but a gaping hole where a strong, political voice for the youth used to be. Honest and refreshing, it could be a long while before we see anyone similar to The King Blues, and it’s a damn shame that we’re missing them.