8/10

As one of the stalwarts of English crooners, Richard Hawley's soft yet rugged voice has always been the focus of his music. But after his 2012 release 'Standing At The Sky's Edge', with its loud guitars and more rock based direction, we thought we were seeing a new side to Hawley's musical journey. But he is back to deliver what he does best on this new release, and it is brilliant to hear.

Having spent the last few years providing vocals to tracks for the Arctic Monkeys and Manic Street Preachers, it doesn't take long for you to realise why his vocals are in such high demand. His rich vocals swim happily over a bed of reversed guitars and light production, giving it the full attention it deserves and allowing him to create a record that shows exactly what he is capable of. Bouncing melodies with a touch of subtle soundscaping have given 'Hollow Meadows' a feel that is divine in almost every way.

While this new release may not have the variety of some of his previous records, it still highlights his talents in an incredible way and allows him to show how brilliant and dexterous his songwriting is.