Woodenbox - Woodenbox

Woodenbox was originally released last July but has been now reissued after selling out its first pressing. It's an acoustic side project of 24-year-old Edinburger Ali Downer, who is also a member of the much noisier outfit, The Cigarettes. A quick gander at this guy's bio reveals he has crammed a whole lifetime's experience into just a few years, and this is to the benefit of the songs on this fine collection of lilting, worldly-wise folk pop. Strong on harmonies and experimental instrumentation, the end result is akin to a less weary Elliott Smith or a quirkier Kings of Convenience. Up-tempo tracks Situations and Tomorrow's Man are the standouts, and perhaps this album could have done with a couple more in this vein, but on the whole it's an enjoyable listen that marks the arrival of a promising new Scottish artist. [Graeme Blaikie]