8/10

Throughout the last few years, Brighton-based singer and songwriter Bess Atwell has formed a strong and devout fanbase for her wistful and lilting acoustic-led compositions. Her rich and heartfelt voice remained the standout of those early years as she looked to break through the fuzz of all the other names emerging at the time. But now signed to Lucy Rose's Real Kind Records and a flurry of captivating cuts under her belt throughout the last year, she has now returned with her shimmering sophomore studio album 'Already, Always', a record that shines as a beacon toward her iconic status.

Artists like Bess Atwell will never fail to impress. Despite such a light and humbled production to her work, she is able to deliver a distinctive and succinct collection of breezy delights that manage to entice the soul and pull on the heart. With a strong and driven aesthetic that matches her exquisite voice with warm and airy instrumentation, 'Already, Always' immediately stands out as a true gem on the new music circuit, creating this fresh and inviting aura that looks to pull you in and never let you go.

It may have been the encouragement of being noticed by Lucy Rose or the maturity she has developed over the years, but there is something truly special about her presence on 'Already, Always'. She performs as if there is no audience whatsoever, baring her soul at every opportunity and creating this raw and intimate look deep within her soul.