Initial impressions

BAND OF HORSES, Infinite Arms

Maybe I jumped the gun when preparing myself for Infinite Arms to be the best Band Of Horses record to date. On the evidence of the songs they previewed ahead of its release, they appeared to be in fine form. Yet taken as a whole, the strike rate of memorable vs. forgettable tracks simply isn't high enough. "Factory" is quietly beautiful in the same vein (and same league) as "The Funeral" and "No One's Gonna Love You," but perhaps it should have closed the album, rather than opened it; nothing else matches the high standard it sets, and I just don't see myself returning to this album all that often.

PEARLY GATE MUSIC, Pearly Gate Music

Pearly Gate Music weren't on my radar in any way, shape or form until a timely shout out from Pop Tarts Suck Toasted pointed me in their direction. It turns out that their self-titled debut album is one of those hidden gems that may never generate too much discussion or affection, but rest assured that the handful of people who discover it will cherish it forever. The simplicity of the melodies on offer doing nothing to alter the fact that these songs stay with you, and Zach Tillman should be commended for putting out an uncomplicated first record filled with understated beauty. "I Was A River" is the standout track, an incredibly sparse arrangement infused with a sense of poignancy so pure it's impossible not to get caught up in the feelings it evokes. Highly recommended.

WOODPIGEON, Die Stadt Muzikanten

Continuing with the 'understated' theme, on their third album Woodpigeon offer their most ambitious record to date, without changing too much about their sound. Traces of Belle & Sebastian, Beirut and Seabear are easily identifiable, but at the same time, they've clearly found their own unique voice. "Empty-Hall-Sing-Along" provides exactly what the title suggests, a delicate slice of music that belongs on a movie soundtrack. "Duck Duck Goose" wonderfully highlights the expansiveness they're capable of, whilst sounding earnestly hopeful. If you haven't already heard them, this is the perfect place to start.