8/10

Ever since he departed from his formative outfit The Coral to explore a solo career, Bill Ryder-Jones has quickly found himself as one of the more progressive and forward-thinking singer-songwriters doing the rounds today. With a wealth of warm and inviting releases under his belt throughout the first decade of his current incarnation, his endearing presence has been one of the hallmarks of his new and explorative direction so far. And with his 2018 LP 'Yawn' continuing that vibrant nature, he makes his eagerly-awaited return with his fifth studio album 'Iechyd Da', a record brimming with shimmering ideals throughout.

Much like what we have come to expect from him on previous outings, 'Iechyd Da' is a rich and tender return to those sombre intentions from start to finish. Keeping the mood and flow of this new release as easygoing as possible, his latest collection captures another heady dose of sweet and alluring aesthetics, held together by his own captivating vocal style. While not moving on too much from the sound he has always looked to pursue, he still manages to find fresh and innovative ideas in which to explore here.

Bill Ryder-Jones has always had this uncanny ability to tap into the most passionate of songwriting tropes, and 'Iechyd Da' sees him in one of his most enchanting personas yet. A bright and wondrous listen that rarely falters as it plays.