PJ Harvey ‎– Let England Shake

PJ Harvey – Let England Shake

A stark, poetic, and deeply atmospheric work, Let England Shake stands as one of the most acclaimed albums by English artist PJ Harvey. Released in 2011, it blends art rock, folk influences, and experimental instrumentation into a haunting reflection on war, history, and national identity.

Co-produced with long-time collaborators John Parish and Mick Harvey, the album was largely recorded in a converted church, giving it a raw, reverberant sound that enhances its ghostly, battlefield-inspired atmosphere. Instruments such as autoharp, saxophone, Mellotron, and zither are woven into minimalist arrangements that feel both intimate and unsettling.

Lyrically, PJ Harvey draws on historical conflict, particularly World War I imagery, to explore themes of loss, displacement, and the cyclical nature of violence. Her vocal delivery is restrained yet emotionally charged, adding to the album’s sense of unease and beauty.

Featuring standout tracks such as The Words That Maketh Murder, The Glorious Land, On Battleship Hill, and Let England Shake, the album won the Mercury Prize and is widely regarded as one of the defining British albums of the 21st century.

Tracklist:

1. Let England Shake
2. The Last Living Rose
3. The Glorious Land
4. The Words That Maketh Murder
5. All And Everyone
6. On Battleship Hill
7. England
8. In The Dark Places
9. Bitter Branches
10. Hanging In The Wire
11. Written On The Forehead
12. The Colour Of The Earth