One of the least creative things you can be is a National Institution. Sure, itâs nice to be loved, but where is the space to manoeuvre? Fans â and thereâs a lot of them â come to expect your trademark, and arrive at gigs demanding something they recognise, as opposed to something that will surprise them. The past decade, however, has seen Tom Jones balance his role as a National Institution with some of the most gutsy and raw performances of his career. Working closely with producer Ethan Johns, he tapped into the gospel, country, blues, and soul influences that first fired his imagination as a kid in the valleys. 2010âs âPraise & Blameâ was a startling late-career about-turn, followed by âSpirit In The Roomâ and 2015âs âLong Lost Suitcaseâ.