Untold

It is, I suppose, no coincidence that Denis McArdle earns a crust as a documentary film-maker, for this, his debut album, is an engaging and absorbing work, cinematic in its range and ambition.

The album opens with ‘Coffee And Cinnamon’, one of his own songs, in which his upper register is mindful of that of Fran McPhail, from The Voice Squad. Its uptempo feel is bathed in harmonies and light percussion, creating a lovely shimmering effect.

Interest thus engaged, it's now time for close listening. Thereafter, Denis' album becomes a right Pandora's Box, with surprises waiting around every corner, the gorgeous cello work on ‘Sick Day’ being just one .

What really impresses about this album is that, despite being so diverse – he mixes Massive Attack with ‘The May Morning Dew’ – it works on most levels. My only cavil – and it is a minor one – is that occasionally, as on ‘Green Grow The Rushes’ – his voice is a tad mannered. Set against the upside of great arrangements and innovative production, one such blip is allowed.