8/10

Throughout his dynamic career to date, US artist and producer Carey Clayton has always sought to develop a broader and more enigmatic style than many of his peers. While largely adopting the same ethereal space as the likes of Radiohead and Unknown Mortal Orchestra, his direction has been a far less predictable one as he looks to make every new piece as original and distinctive as possible. And after a wondrous run of releases throughout the last few months, he now returns with his eagerly-awaited third studio album 'Headless', a record that heightens that adventurous spirit he is known for.

Coming in at sixteen tracks in length, 'Headless' instantly sets itself up as his most ambitious offering to date. But despite its lengthy listening time, his newest collection still manages to pack itself with plenty of fresh and interesting surprises. Inspired by his own mediations and mindfuless practices, the album has this beautifully refined texture to it, swapping elegantly between shimmering dream-pop efforts and more atmospheric endeavours, resulting in this wildly diverse experience that sees him push the boundaries of his aesthetic as far as it will go.

While he has always been one of the more innovative names rising through the ranks, 'Headless' feels like a bold step forward within his musical evolution to date. Brimming with this warm and inviting texture from start to finish, he continues his ascent as one of the more compelling artists doing the rounds right now.