And there I was thinking that King Creosote was some white rapper… Well of course he’s not (stupid me!); he’s a Scottish contemporary folksinger/songwriter that goes by the name of Kenny Anderson; and his new album has got to be one of the best released in 2007.

Right from the first note mournful Hammond notes of ‘Leslie’ I’m frankly hooked. Anderson’s expressive voice, that sways from whispered to soaring, has a compelling quality which underpins the song’s contemplative vibe. It’s just so beautiful… Wandering piano notes introduce the more upbeat ‘Home In A Sentence’ with its huge melody, crashing guitar riffs and earth-shaking choruses. Then comes the first single, ‘You’ve No Clue Do You’ with its pounding beat, distinctive chorus, and a vocal that roams far and wide. ‘Cowardly Custard’ has a traditional vibe with a pounding music-by-numbers rhythm section and could so easily be a barnstorming Proclaimers song. The vibe goes into reverse with the deeply moving and subtle acoustic tones of ‘Church As Witness’ – surely one of the most beautiful songs to be released in 2007. Anderson also gives the most heartrending, sensitive vocal performances on the album. ‘Nooks’ is altogether lighter and could be the next single release, while the morose and epic ‘Now Drop Your Bombshell’ could go down in folk history as one of the finest contemporary songs written in the last ten years. There are vocal moments in the song that remind me of the late lamented Tim Buckley. It’s followed by another potential classic in the gently meandering ‘Admiral’, with vocal moments that raised goose bumps and a melody made in heaven. ‘Spystick is another winner with its blockbuster melody, gorgeous vocal harmonies and relentless flow.

For lovers of modern folk this album is a must-buy. There are some nice changes of pace, consistent quality, fabulous melodies, intense emotional pull, and a distinctive vocal that is nothing less than compelling. Folk album of the year? I think so…

4.5/5