Review

Once the poster boy for Britain's indie-rock excesses, Peter Doherty returns with *Felt Better Alive*, his first solo album in nine years, offering a candid reflection of a life lived on the edge. Now 46 and residing in Normandy with his wife and daughter, Doherty has traded the chaos of his past for a quieter existence, yet his latest work retains the poetic charm and whimsicality that have long defined his music. The album opens with the title track, a bouncy, country-tinged number that sets the tone for a collection steeped in introspection and rustic melodies. "Pot of Gold" stands out as a lullaby to his daughter, where Doherty's lyrics reveal both tender affection and a wry acknowledgment of financial necessity: "If that lullaby is a hit, dad can buy you loads of cool shit." Doherty's surroundings in Normandy permeate the album, with tracks like "Prêtre de la Mer" and "Stade Océan" paying homage to his adopted home. These songs, imbued with a Gallic flair, showcase his ability to blend the personal with the picturesque, crafting narratives that are both intimate and evocative. While some tracks meander into indulgent territory, the album's sincerity and melodic warmth anchor it firmly. Doherty's collaboration with producer Mike Moore brings a cohesive sound that marries his signature lyrical style with folk and country influences, creating a tapestry of songs that reflect a man at peace with his past and hopeful for the future. *Felt Better Alive* is not just a musical endeavor but a testament to Doherty's resilience and evolution as an artist. It's a heartfelt journey through redemption, fatherhood, and the enduring power of song.