This album might be blessed with only nine tracks, but Alan has ensured that every last one counts, with all the tunes being highly addictive and charming.

Alan has such an easy-going and softly-spoken singing voice that the laid-back music proves to be a perfect compliment to his warm-hearted and lovelorn musings.  Never is the mood dark or depressing, as 'Underground' sets off this run of truly stunning songs, the beautifully-crafted chorus of which is one of the most sublime I have heard in the best part of my 24 years. 

Sings Alan “Don't get me started unless you've got time to spare”.  Indeed, the listener must have ample time to spare too; time to allow each one of these songs to really get under the skin and become a part of you.

'Motivation' (“My conscience gives my pride a little chill”) relies heavily on its strong sense of melody, backed by a surreal and engaging beat from drummer Michael Lamb.  Similarly, 'Gentle Demise' is perfect, blissed-out pop-rock that's thoroughly uplifting.

Long-haired Alan bemusingly thanks Britney Spears in the credits and it would be interesting to know why exactly, while his singing voice might just remind of Anthony Kiedis' through 'She Hides Her Eyes' and Eagle Eye Cherry's come the turn of 'Spaceman’, before 'Life Goes On' takes the album out on a high.  

Most of the tracks are acoustic-based, and to say that every one reigns supreme in mint condition is to seriously understate their ability to potentially move the listener to tears of sheer gratitude.  
(5/5)