Ben Watt: Hendra

Has another 1980s pop star comes out of the woodwork? Following Kate Bush's return to live performing, we now have former Everything But the Girl's Ben Watt releasing his second solo album – 31 years after his debut, North Marine Drive . Watt hasn't been as low-key as Bush, of course, but it's still good to have him back as a recording artist. Fans will know not to expect an Chas & Dave-like knees-up, but rather Watt's by-now signature ruminative tropes on matters that ring true and clear. Domestic balance is elaborated on in The Heart Is a Mirror , grief on the emotive Nathaniel, and intimations of resignation on Young Man's Game. Woven throughout is one man's sober demeanour peppered with atmospheric and serrated folk rock. Oh, and a suitably pure guitar solo from Pink Floyd's Dave Gilmour on The Levels . benwatt.com
Download: The Heart Is a Mirror, The Levels, Young Man's Game