There's really well woven textural ensemble play here and an expansive ambitious sound at work from New Zealand guitarist Callum Allardice and his orchestra of rhythm section and brass plus strings. The sound recalls the approach of Vince Mendoza a bit in the arranging and even in places Pat Metheny circa Secret Story plus a scattering of other indie rock and Ennio Morricone influences. The writing, quite romantic and naturalistic in places, is very strong - check out a track 'Phobos and Deimos' featuring bassist Thomas Botting streaming from the album above. Allardice's soloing on 'Dark Love' is excellent. A new artist with a lot musicially to say worth taking a big punt on. Out on 8 March.
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