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Mar 29, 2019 Web Exclusive By Scott Dransfield

C Duncan, even two albums into his career, can rightfully be called an auteur. He approaches each project like a director, with an unparalleled attention to detail that shows in each aspect, from the album art (which he paints himself) to each rich, goopy layer of vocal harmony or lush keys. He produced the entirety of his first two albums, playing every instrument. Each album’s sound nails some specific aesthetic, be it the pastoral folk-pop of Architect or the pillowy layers of synths and vocal harmonies throughout The Midnight Sun. Those records’ direction and focus are their strengths, yet it’s a welcome surprise that Duncan has decided to open up to collaborators on his new album, Health. And especially so that it’s his most personal, and best, album to date.

Lead single “Impossible” heralded a new direction from the start-with its bouncy synth stabs and ABBA-esque beats and chorus vocals, it was Duncan’s most excitingly upbeat song yet. The album overall fulfills the promise that single set forth-opener “Talk Talk Talk,” “Holiday Home,” “Blasé,” and “Pulses & Rain” are all quick-tempoed and light-hearted in shades not yet seen on C Duncan’s usually composed, dreamy records. “Holiday Home” especially is breezy and downright groovy, with its syncopated percussion and funk rhythm guitar. “Talk Talk Talk” marries the gorgeously layered vocals from The Midnight Sun with this album’s new fascination with dance, disco, and funk instrumentation. It starts out with a fun beat and gets more addictive as it goes on.

Speaking of instrumentation, despite the new flavors on the aforementioned tracks, Health also contains many songs that luxuriate in the same synth-based dream pop of The Midnight Sun, but if anything they are more passionate and more beautiful. The piano-driven title track is one of the most emotionally intense songs in Duncan’s library, and “Reverie” contains a stunning string arrangement to back up his mournful vocals. These are among the best songs Duncan has ever written. In fact, Health is easily Duncan’s most three-dimensional release yet. It’s fun, yet sincere, with top-notch compositions and arrangements that make it one of the best indie pop releases of 2019. (www.c-duncan.co.uk)

Author rating: 7.5/10