The Captain & The Kid by Elton John

Elton John's latest album, The Captain & The Kid, marks the return to form of a singer-songwriter whose clever vocals and vibrant tunes have mesmerised generations of music-lovers since the 1970s.

The album is also a celebration of four decades of friendship and collaboration between John and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The pair has produced classic after classic, ranging from the jovial Tiny Dancer to the melancholic Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word.

In addition to the usual radio-friendly tunes - such as the catchy I Must Have Lost it on the Wind, the touching Wouldn't Have You Any Other Way (NYC) and the Candle in the Wind-like Blues Never Fade Away - John's new album provides plenty of original moments for his fans to cherish.

And the House Fell Down and Just Like Noah's Ark are energetic, piano-driven tunes. They are fresh enough, and have enough bounce, to convince the sceptics that John - despite his recent dips - remains one of the most crafty and creative pianists in pop music. It is nice to see John trying hard again instead of just relying on his fame. The Captain & The Kid shows the star is returning to his old, brilliant self.