Ivan St John

Up to Snuff Nestegg Records ***

It’s gotten tough out there for a man (or woman) armed with only a guitar. The era of the dreary folk singer is well and truly over, but Ivan St John’s twist on acoustic pop saves him from being dismissed as just another glorified busker. This is down to his distinctive nasal warble, some smashing harmonies and a great understanding of melody.

St John's debut was recorded in Steve Albini's fancy Chicago studio, but it's the homemade charm of songs such as Senectitude Becomes Herand Mysterious Waysthat gives Up to Snuffits allure – even if the former is one of several tunes that wears its Beatles Fan Club badge a little too brazenly. Nevertheless, there's a lot to bounce, tap and nod along to on this unassuming debut. See myspace.com/ivanstjohn

Download tracks: Mysterious Ways, Senectitude Becomes Her