Mark Mulcahy - Smilesunset (2001)

Sometimes the best music takes a long time to mature. Such is the case with Mark Mulcahy, as demonstrated on SmileSunset. Mulcahy began recording with the Miracle Legion in 1984. While ML were dismissed by many as mere R.E.M. imitators, confirmation of Mulcahy's singular talent came when he broke away to release his 1998 debut solo, Fathering. Radiohead's Tom Yorke hailed Mulcahy's delirious, dreamy vocals and critics invoked Jeff and Tim Buckley comparisons. SmileSunset demonstrates that Mulcahy's talent for creating a sense of rapturous intimacy is undimmed. His peerless vocals swoop and dive on "Alamo in Alabama" and unwrap the fragile regret of "I Shot Myself in the Foot." Lyrically, "The Come On," the carnival-like "Until I Say So," and "Quiet One" detail a world of bohemian intrigue and sexual adventure. Mulcahy's own multi-instrumental skills add ornate musical splashes and contribute to SmileSunset's delicate, provocative, and warm and wonderful aura. --Gavin Martin