That Michael Andrews' debut solo album 'Hand On String' should have a quietly cinematic quality should come as no surprise considering he has made his name as an arranger and composer for the likes of 'Donnie Darko,' and 'Me and You and Everyone We Know' to name but two. It is staggering to think that after all this time and all the acclaim he has received, he has waited until now to break out on his own. Tellingly, on 'Tracings' he states in hushed tones that 'I never sing / I often write.' Well, thank your chosen deity that this woozy and intimate record has been bestowed upon us. As a record, its intricacy and delicacy are offset by simple melodic purity not often found on the contemporary scene. Reminiscent of Sean Lennon's release last year in its electronic psychedelia, Andrews incorporates aspects of writers like Nick Drake on 'Through The Fog' to make an album that encapsulates a hazy California evening. Watch the sun disappearing into the Pacific with every perfectly placed note of this record.

Words: Karl O'Keeffe