7/10

When your debut album has been one of the most world conquering of the last few years, the idea of following up can be one of the most daunting experiences an artist can go through. With his 2017 debut album 'Human' transforming Rag'n'Bone Man from a humble upstart to one of the biggest names in the world, his loyal fanbase have waited with baited breath too find out what he returns with next. And after a number of years looking for his next progressive steps to take, he has returned with his eagerly-awaited sophomore LP 'Life By Misadventure', a record that looks to lay waste to his formative self in search of something broader.

From the very start, it is clear that 'Life By Misadventure' has been inspired by a multitude of different aesthetics. With nods to the Southern American country sound, neo-soul, and even Britpop all showing a side to his sound we haven't heard before, his follow-up collection sees him in a far more diverse and adventurous light. While there doesn't seem to be much in the way of bold and euphoric anthems on this release, he has chosen a far more solemn intention throughout here, giving us more of a chance to experience his more humbled side and elevate his songwriting prowess from start to finish.

It may not have the same instant impact that 'Human' did, but 'Life By Misadventure' still makes for a warm and driven listen. Choosing not to simply rehash his direction from four years ago, his new full-length shows him in a strong state of musical evolution, exploring a new side to himself and opening us up to his newfound direction.