It really saddens me when we fail to receive review copies of albums by wonderful British talent from smaller, independent labels. And especially when the label is astute enough to sign inspiring talent such as McRae (amongst others). Fortunately, I received this album for Christmas and decided to provide a very, very late review. I’m glad I did.

McRae’s first album was one of the finest I’ve heard from a British singer/songwriter, and some of the songs still spin around in my head. I’ve also seen the young man perform live which confirmed for me just how good an artist he is. McRae’s second album therefore was always going to be a challenge, but I think he’s pulled it off. Opening track, A Day Like Today, is very short and very different from anything on his first album. There are pleasant electronic keyboard touches and earthy percussive sounds that form a rock steady rhythm. Lyrically, McRae is up there with the best: “Need to see need to say need to be something beautiful, I can’t get today out of my mind, Need to say need to call to love someone beautiful, A day like today has stained my eyes.” A beautiful opening. Next track, You Only Disappear, is stronger with a more expressive, more passionate vocal wandering alongside a stronger melody and compelling instrumental vibe. The song moves at a pace akin to a sailing boat almost becalmed by stuttering winds. And it gets even better with the haunting, compelling Ghost Of A Shark. The most stunning, subtle guitar riffs waft in and out as McRae gently sings an alt-country tinged song of great beauty. McRae’s lyrical strength is underlined with the wonderful line in next song, Stronger Than Dirt: “Somebody wake me up the dream is growing cold…”

It’s so difficult to pick a highlight from this wonderful album but Walking To Hawaii is certainly one of them with its mesmerising bass vibe, understated vocal performance, and more great lyrics (”Falling feels like flying, until you hit the ground and everything is beautiful/’till you take a look around so let it go.”). But the accolade of best song goes to the next track, Mermaid Blues, with its soaring and distinctive instrumental arrangement, and glorious vocal performance.

JUST LIKE BLOOD sees McRae further develop his ability to vocally express some very fine lyrics. It perhaps lacks the killer tunes of his first album, but with such consistency and greater adventure, it more than makes up for this. McRae is the UK’s finest young male singer/songwriter, and this album proves it.

4/5