The second and eagerly awaited album by Blackfield, comprising of the duo Aviv Geffen and Porcupine Tree's Steve Wilson. Various other musicians are added to the mix and special mention to Aviv's string arrangements that ad greatly to the sound but without dominating it.

Without a doubt these two musicians are a match made in heaven as the arrangements, vocals and most importantly the songs are sheer bliss to listen to. From the opener 'Once' with its glorious harmony filled chorus through to the closing track 'End of the World' (this along with two other tracks sees the two sharing vocals and they compliment each other very well), each and every song is lovingly created.

This may sound like over the top praise but listen to this album and you will be transported to musical heaven. There are no real 'get up and go' pop rockers on here, the emphasis is more on keyboard led songs, with songs like 'Christenings' and 'Some Day' just crying out for airplay as they would be become instant favourites I am sure.

If you like Porcupine Tree in their more reflective moments such as 'Lazarus' you really should try Blackfield as you won't be disappointed.

****½

Review by Jason Ritchie