So this is it then, the end of the road for Cock Sparrer<\/strong>, formed as a pub rock band way back in 1972 and now rightly regarded as legends of the street-punk scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Age does not weary them; in fact they’re more popular now than ever, packing out festivals and club shows wherever they go. Music fans tend to love ’em or hate ’em. I’m firmly in the former camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hand On Heart<\/em> is the follow-up to 2017’s Forever<\/em>, one of the best late-career highs I’ve ever heard, and for me the equal of their classic 1982 debut Shock Troops<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s fair to say Sparrer have a trademark sound; big riffs, even bigger hooks, pounding drums, singalong melodies and huge mob choruses. All are present and correct here, the latter courtesy of a gang of mates dubbed Oi The Choir. That’s a nice touch, as Sparrer are all about family, community and looking after your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They’re still the same four fellas who got together 52 years ago: Colin McFaull (vocals), Mick Beaufoy (guitar), Steve Burgess (bass) and Steve Bruce (drums), plus, of course, ‘new’ guitarist Daryl Smith, who has been in the band a mere 31 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Things kicks off with (almost) title track With My Hand On My Heart<\/em>, a typically anthemic slice of Sparrer goodness, about living your dreams, and knowing that those you love have got your back if it doesn’t work out.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTrademark sound<\/h3>\n\n\n\n