8/10

Over the last few years, New York-based artist JW Francis has been slowing growing a cult fanbase around his wonderfully laid-back sound. Self-described as a "lofi jangle dream slacker bedroom pop" artist, he has this wonderfully blissful direction that has quickly began to accelerate in recent years, reaching further afield than he has ever achieved before. And while he continues to ride the crest of his wave of popularity, he returns to deliver his eagerly-awaited new album 'Dream House', a record that perfectly illustrated why so many have been flocking to him of late.

From the very start, 'Dream House' establishes itself as a beautifully warm and inviting release. Originally conceived as a Valentine's Day project where he asked fans to send him stories about their loved ones so he could compose songs about them, this new offering has a sweet yet euphoric aesthetic that perfectly builds upon his shimmering textures so far. With each effort its own snapshot at his distinctively diverse guise, he has returned with a rich and alluring collection of heartfelt gems that elevate his persona throughout.

JW Francis may still skirt the outer peripheries of the commercial landscape, but 'Dream House' is one of those albums impossible to ignore. With such a fresh and captivating approach to his songwriting and production throughout, he is most certainly in a personal renaissance of musical self-discovery, allowing him to branch out and be inventive more often than most.