"Let England Shake," PJ Harvey's eighth studio album, emerged as a significant artistic statement upon its release on February 14, 2011, under Island Records. Although the seeds of its creation were sown around the time of her previous album, "White Chalk," released in 2007, it diverged from the introspective piano-driven sound of its predecessor.
 
Crafted over a span of two and a half years, "Let England Shake" was recorded within the confines of a church in Dorset over five intensive weeks in April and May 2010. Its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics captured the essence of Harvey's profound reflections on the state of England and the world.
 
The album's impact was swift and profound, garnering widespread critical acclaim upon its release. It earned the esteemed title of "Album of the Year" from 16 publications in 2011 and clinched the coveted Mercury Prize in September of the same year. Notably, this marked Harvey's fourth nomination for the prize, solidifying her status as the most successful artist in its history.
 
Further accolades followed suit, with "Let England Shake" receiving the Uncut Music Award in November 2011 and being honored as Album of the Year at the 2012 Ivor Novello Awards. Its evocative exploration of themes both personal and societal cemented its place as a seminal work in Harvey's illustrious career.