It is wondrous, it is equal parts deeply touching, emotionally resonant and just plain lovely. It features ten songs of such fully-formed and beautifully presented craft as to appear to emanate from the mind and heart of a battle-scarred veteran. That they are the first solo forays into the world of Albert af Ekenstam makes them all the more impressive. drowned in sound Matching the exquisite detail of Bon Iver to the sonic wash of Explosions In The Sky, his work is powerful, emotionally trenchant. Hugely affecting, the way each cut gently unfurls has a real sense of grace, a true sense of patience. clash music Like Elliot Smith (rest in peace) and Damien Jurado, say, Albert is a very brave and straightforward singersongwriter. His melodies and lyrics are like uncensored and infinitely beautiful letters – without euphemisms and false chords they let you know what’s on his mind. At the same time they’re universal – if you’ve loved and lost you can relate to them.They also – also! – start your internal movie projector. With “Ashes” on the stereo and with eyes closed memory fragments, glowing emotions and pure dreams fly through your soul. That Filip’s production (which you’ve heard on Anna von Hausswolff’s two latest albums) is both intimate and grand at the same time makes this personal cinematic experience even more sensational. Great art. What more can you ask for?Albert af Ekenstam is here to stay.I look forward to spending many years in the company of his solo material.