Ryan Driver – Who's Breathing?

It’s best to take all press release hyperbole with a shovel of salt, but claiming that Ryan Driver “just made the greatest soul record of the decade” is particularly perplexing. Never mind whether it’s the greatest or not; it’s not all that clear what’s meant by “soul”.

Nick Drake’s whispering croon appears to have influenced the vocals considerably, but while Driver doesn’t limit his inspirations to folk – eclectically taking cues from country (on pedal-steel opener Dead End Street) and lounge-jazz (much of the latter half) – there’s scant trace of gospel or rhythm and blues.

Unfortunately, nor is there much ‘deeply felt emotion’ to be had (the other presumed meaning of ‘soul’ in this context): songs are spun with such a delicate touch they barely register, and when they do – such as on the easy-listening fondue of Don’t Want to Leave You Without You – it’s not necessarily appreciated. [Chris Buckle]