There are some records that one dismisses after one play, but then there are some which one decides to give a second chance to inspire. Well, this is one of them and it’s gradually worked its way into my psyche not for any one special reason, but for a number of reasons. I would mention just two of them: It’s a beautifully crafted record, and it communicates some interesting messages. For me that’s pretty good for starters… Breaks Co-Op is Zane Lowe, Hamish Clark and Andy Lovegrove.

The record starts with title track, The Sound Inside and a spooky intro that opens up with sharp, relentless percussive notes and one of many excellent vocals from Andy Lovegrove. It’s a slow-mover with lovely harmonies, a haunting vibe and it’s very different. Wonder is next up and offers up a more jagged beat under an easy sounding multi-layered vocal, and the faintest hint of a female backing vocal that must be the most subtle I’ve ever heard. There’s a strong dance beat and decent melody to underpin another good song. The Otherside has a beautiful acoustic guitar intro before a serious bass line enters along with another superb soul vocal from Lovegrove. Then some terrific vocal harmonies including Zane Lowe enter stage-left and add a sense of drama to the song. This one’s pretty special and is one of my record highlights. It’s during this song that one becomes conscious of influences such as Marvin Gaye, Eagles and Crosby Stills & Nash. Settle Down contains some interesting percussive work which sounds both Latin and African, and a reggae vibe that drives the song along. Last Night is a soulful, lumbering tune with a different lead vocal that performs at almost talking pace. Another acoustic guitar intro appears in A Place For You but this time lasts the course in a gentle and very beautiful love song. The vocals are sincere and as sensitive as a gentle sea breeze. Did I mention melody? Yup, truckloads of it, but it never overpowers and lets the song’s message through loud and clear.

This is a surprising record and in today’s rather homogenous music market, rather adventurous. It’s nothing less than a delight and deserves your attention.

4/5