Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan – Hawk

As unlikely a pairing as they are, Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan are onto their third outing together; if it doesn’t add up on paper it sure as hell does on record. Lanegan’s thick baritone vocal remains the most identifiable element in the mix but kudos must go to Campbell for writing and producing another sterling collection of simple, stark, and robust songs. We Die and See Beauty Reign would make for a great Bond theme with its eerie melody and subtle tension.

There’s no sign of The Zombies on Time Of The Season, but this original effort shuffles along like a classic from the school of Jimmy Webb. Not content with one man, Campbell seduces Willy Mason on No Place To Fall and Cool Water, both playful country, blues yarns. Like an ageless Celtic-reel, Eyes of Green is dazzling and closer, Lately, ends the album with a lush soul-gospel workout, it’s truly mesmerising and demonstrates Campbell’s ever-increasing confidence and way with a tune. As classy as they come. [Alan Souter]