Singer/songwriter William Hut was the lead singer with Norwegian band Poor Rich Ones. In recent years he has blossomed in his homeland as a solo artist and won recognition, sales and airplay for his ethereal pop music. This is his second solo album and one that has been very well received by the UK media.

The opening track King Of is an encouraging start. It’s a glacially paced, melodic song and an excellent showcase for Hut’s young, rather sweet voice. Lyrically, it’s rather obtuse but overall it’s a good opening gambit. But then my interest started to wilt with the next track It’s The Breeze, an ordinary pop song with another set of incomprehensible lyrics. After the next serving Twin Town I’m afraid my interest is further tested with a song that while boasting some pleasant instrumental moments offers little else. Pick of the album is In Your Division a dreamy song beefed up with some subtle brass and Hammond accompaniments.

The rest of the album is sonically repetitious and offers nothing distinctive to anyone looking for something new. There’s no doubting that Hut has an interesting voice, has a sharp sense of melody, and what’s on offer here is extremely radio-friendly. But the album lacks inspirational qualities and is totally eclipsed by many solo albums released in 2005.

3/5