7/10

Since he first emerged almost two decades ago, Swedish singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson aka The Tallest Man On Earth has been one of the purest names on the contemporary folk scene. Largely honing his craft within the more traditional elements of the genre, he has been able to inflect a contemporary edge to his work in recent years, giving him this wonderfully innovative progressive guise in which to explore. And after debuting on his new label Anti- last year with 'Too Late For Edelweiss', he returns once again to offer up his latest studio album 'Henry St.', a record that continues that inventive direction.

While his material in recent years has been a fresh and distinctive experience, for 'Henry St.', it feels as if he is wearing his influences on his sleeve far more regularly here. Channelling a strong Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie sound throughout his newest collection, he pursues this familiar yet unique appeal that stretches the length of this new release. While never normally one to be this transparent with his inspirations, Matsson seems keen to hark back to those formative years of his and create a full-length brimming with traditional inflections, albeit within his adventurous aesthetic as well.

The Tallest Man On Earth has always been an invigorating project to follow, and 'Henry St.' is no different there, but it can sometimes come off as a little safe compared to the sprawling invention of his earlier offerings. Nevertheless, it still makes for a rousing return from an artist always looking to brighten and elevate our days.