8/10

Throughout the last few years, VC PInes' Jack Mercer has been quick to cement himself as one of the more exciting names emerging from the capital. With a sound that takes the warm and blanketed feel of the neo-soul genre and reflects it off a glittering city landscape, his singles and EPs to date have been a widely-praised affair, championed by almost every tastemaker worth listening to. And after a run of impressive outings already this year, he now delivers his long-awaited debut album 'MRI', a record that looks to project even more of his true self.

Inspired by his lifelong struggles with epilepsy and seizures, 'MRI' stands as a wonderfully intimate and personal collection that adds that extra layer of vulnerability to his already immersive sound. With its smooth and passionate demeanour perfectly elevating his rich and tender vocal style from start to finish, this new offering brings a sense of urgency to his recent material. Broadening his musical ambitions just enough to create a varied and diverse listen, he continues to build upon his acclaimed foundations with style and finesse throughout.

While the soulful elements of his first full-length remain at its heart, VC Pines' movements towards psychedelica and electronica give this release a beautifully elegant and dramatic appeal. 'MRI' may have been a long time in the making, but it is certainly worth the wait.