Debut albums from new singer/songwriters are always interesting, but it’s rare to find one as accomplished and composed as this wonderful disc from Flora Reed.
Although an acoustic album, it’s not quite what you’d expect – it’s much more than just acoustic guitar, the use of cello, keyboards and percussion create a fully rounded album with an individual and distinct sound. 
The songs have a cohesive and fluid feel, and rather than a stylistically disparate set of tracks it feels like a collection of 11 related songs - there’s a gentle and considered atmosphere on ‘Settle Down’ that makes it an easy and appealing album to listen to.
The disc may be mellow and considered, but it’s full of dynamism in the performances, arrangements and lyrics – the musicians are excellent and Flora’s vocals are distinct, wonderfully sweet and breathy, but strong enough to make a real impact on the listener.
Flora is one of the new generation of singer/songwriters snapping at the heels of established artists such as Dar Williams, Aimee Mann and Patty Griffin, and on the evidence on ‘Settle Down’ she’s destined for much greater things in the future – this is an excellent disc well worth investigating.

£13.49