8/10

Following on from his 2013 album 'Joy Of Nothing', Northern Irish singer-songwriter Foy Vance makes his debut on Ed Sheeran's Gingerbread Man Records with his third full-length 'The Wild Swan'. An album that perfectly reflects the Nashville backdrop that it was recorded in.

Thanks to the rise of contemporary acts like Leon Bridges and Nathan Rateliff, taking influences from America's deep south has reemerged as a popular direction back in the UK, and Foy Vance also manages to capture that sound unlike any non-native. With its eclectic use of instrumentation and engaging songwriting, 'The Wild Swan' has this exceptionally rich quality that is hard to find amongst other similar acts. Vance's ability to soak up the culture is admirable and makes for an incredibly enjoyable release.

No doubt this will emerge as a huge cult record in the months ahead, the album has a rare appeal to it and for those that already find themselves attracted to the sound of America's bible belt, you might want to add one more record to your collection.