This is one of those rare albums where one can truly say it has been made by A Northern Soul. One almost feels the grit being trodden underfoot. This is not, however, some sordid exercise in misery or self-pity; it is a friendly pat on the back, as if to say, we’ve all been there. If these songs sound like they have been well thought about, that is because this album is only Gomm’s second in seven years. Like all good second albums, this is a real progression, with hues of soul and tinges of jazz both toughening and sweetening the sound.
You’ll hear more on every listen. The sound swirls and swoops around you and draws you evermore into a melancholic centre which offers warmth and protection. At heart, though, this is purely and simply a very good collection of very good songs, played with strength, heart and muscle.