ALBUM REVIEWS

Sam Isaac BEARS BANQUET RECORDS 22.6.09 @www.vanguard-online.co.uk In “Bears”, Sam Isaac produces an enjoyable laid-back indie/folk album that works great in the sunshine. Combining the vocal sound of Kele from Bloc Party and a solo singer-songwriter sound akin to Jack Johnson, Newton Faulkner and Ryan Adams, every track is a rambling little song with acoustic guitars, piano and friends singing along in the background. It’s a magical album, apart from the small problem that each track is a bit unspecial. None of them are bad, but, having heard the album three or four times, there are only two lines that remain with me; ‘If we can’t set fire to anything, what’s the point of being scared?’ from “Fire, Fire” and the choral line of “Annie, why are you so angry?” I’d love to elaborate on the musical dexterity and layers on Isaac’s debut album, but it’s not that kind of offering. Just take my word for it; it’s spectacular in a chilled-out summery way. Simon Middleyard www.samisaac.co.uk Email Links & Comments to the editor Check the latest album releases