Indie/Alternative charts

Review: Almost seven years have now passed since Sean Dickson delivered his debut album under the now familiar Hifi Sean alias, the colourful blend of house, disco and downtempo sounds that is 'Ft'. On his belated sophomore set, Dickson has decided to aim higher, not only joining forces with long-serving British soul singer-songwriter David McAlmont, but also by opting for an expansive sound that makes greater use of sinewy strings and organic instrumentation. The results are undeniably impressive, with McAlmont's honeyed voice rising above backing tracks that fit between post trip-hop British soul and dancefloor-baiting takes on Dickson's beloved house. Highlights include synth-house hit 'All In The World', the crackling, subtly P-funk influenced 'Maybe', and the 'Unfinished Symphony' style loveliness of 'Beautiful'.

Review: Soul master Donkin harks back to the golden era of r&b, which he sees as being some 45 odd years ago, on this superb debut album Welcome Home. The singer-songwriter pays homage to the late 1970s and early 1980s with his signature delicate falsetto as well as playful and elaborate vocal harmonies which are back by lush, golden keys and plenty of nimble basslines. Artists like George Benson and James Ingram are referenced musically along the way as these delicate soul ballads come and go on the breeze. It's a great harks back to a super special time but all with a singular twist that roots it in the here and now.