Lewis Wilson - Lift You Up

Though distinctly Scottish, Lewis Wilson's debut is brimming with sun-drenched sounds, echoing the lush harmonies of the Beach Boys and CSNY, infused with his own brightly coloured rock energy. Holiday In The Sun is a prime example, setting the tone for an album filled to the brim with good vibes and well-honed nuggets that recollect the glory days of indie rock progenitors like Teenage Fanclub, Guided By Voices and at times, even Pixies. Backed by various BMX Bandits throughout, Open Your Mind perfectly showcases the debt Wilson owes to the other Mr Wilson, but this entire album is too fun and joyously confident to be written off as a mere imitation. Postcards lowers the pace momentarily but it's sleepy drawl, shimmering chorus and honest lyricism makes up for a drop in tempo. Released on Wilson's own label, this is an impressively strong debut. Essential summer listening.