Recorded in six days in a converted chapel in the Scottish highlands, 17th Century Japanese Aviary is the first full length release from London-based singer-songwriter Inti Rowland. Rowland’s fingerpicked guitar sits in the fore but the album soars way beyond the foundations of traditional singer songwriters with brass, a string quartet and light percussion adding to the mix...

If I were being a lazy journalist, and I suppose I am, I'd have to say that Inti Rowland is a modern day Billy Bragg. However, before you get too excited... I'd argue that while he's in the same vein as Bragg, and his lack of real singing ability is equal, his lyrics are nowhere near as strong.

Like Bragg, the inability to sing anywhere near a perfect pitch can be a little too distracting at times, taking away from what are some fine tunes. Take, for example, 'Beaten Battered But Bold'. This is a beautiful song, but Rowland almost murders it with his screeching.

While, on balance, I personally enjoyed this album, I'm also aware that Rowland's delivery will be something of an acquired taste. This is one I'd certainly advise that you try before you buy.

7

Nick Smithson