ULTRAS – ULTRAS

The new solo project of Gav Prentice from Glasgow cult heroes Over the Wall, ULTRAS combines folk singer-songwriting with electronic, hip-hop influenced beats and samples. While this is very much Prentice's work, ULTRAS self-titled debut sees him collaborate with some of Scotland's finest musical talent, including Jonnie Common, Miaoux Miaoux and on the mournful anti-knife crime ballad Team Handed, his old OTW partner Ben Hillman.

Anyone familiar with Over the Wall will know to expect Prentice's sharp sense of humour, coupled with an ear for a strong track and even better production. Following 90-second opener Intro, a meld of samples and slowed down vocals, This is Where I Fall comes storming out of the gate, full of impassioned, strained vocals overlaying a gorgeous guitar riff and playful beat. Meanwhile, angered, scornful Britannica is a boiling critique of Britain's recent political choices.

Despite the impressive cast involved, ULTRAS' debut does suffer a little from its singularity and repetitiveness, meaning it begins to sag towards the end. Similarly, there are unavoidable comparisons to be had with Arab Strap on tracks such as Royal Names. However, Prentice's playfulness masks some fairly dark themes, allowing it to stand on its own two feet as an achievement.

Listen to: This is Where I Fall, Barleycorn, Stepping Out