7/10

Ever since departing from his formative outfit Wild Beasts, singer and songwriter Hayden Thorpe has been on this incredible journey of self-discovery. Swapping out bold and anthemic indie-rock belters for a more sombre approach to his writing, his solo ventures to date have produced some wildly explorative offerings, all adding something fresh and distinctive to his ever-forming sound. And after rekindling much of his initial flair for his sophomore LP 'Mooniest For My Diamond' in 2021, he is now back once again to deliver his eagerly-awaited third studio album 'Ness', a record that delivers a more honed direction.

Inspired by Orford Ness, a ten-mile long shingle spit on the coast of Suffolk and former Ministry of Defence site during both World Wars and the Cold War, as well as Robert Macfarlane’s book of the same name, 'Ness' unveils a beautifully warm and textured approach to Thorpe's usual atmospheric endeavours. Breathing life into the lyrics with this broad and immersive production that feels far more ethereal and experimental than initially expected, he finds himself in one of his more inventive guises as he looks to make this release one of his more innovative to date.

It certainly has all the appeal of previous Hayden Thorpe releases, but there is something about 'Ness' that feels like a new beginning for him as well. Moving with this rich and pensive tone as it plays, he continues his pursuit as one of the more captivating names doing the rounds right now.