Jack Flanagan - Rides The Sky

On this solo debut, Jack Flanagan bares his heart and wears it as a badge of honour with emotive lyricism. Themes of self-doubt and melancholy are woven throughout ‘Rides The Sky’, while musically, the Mystery Jets bassist constantly flits between styles. ‘Unbelievable’ starts with Neutral Milk Hotel-style guitars before synths elevate the track to a dreamy state, while standout ‘Try’ simultaneously recalls 2010s radio favourites Katy B and Example and classic indie. The record would have benefited from more of this - it gets a bit ballad-weary at points - but it’s clear Jack has a lot to say and he’s in a place where he’s ready to say it; for that alone, the album is worth a listen.