Marcus Foster - Nameless Path
London-based singer-songwriter Marcus Foster has released his debut full-length this week, a nicely diverse record held together by some great vocals.
Within the first three tracks, it's obvious that Foster is going to be a big name.
Whether it's the folky opening of 'Old Birch Tree', or the cabaret-influenced pop-rock romp of 'Faint Stir of Madness', his diversity and talent lends itself to comparisons to the likes of Ed Harcourt.
A unique ring to his voice, Foster has undeniable talent, and it's surprising that Nameless Path is his debut.
It sounds slicker and deeper than records by much more accomplished artists, and it can't be long until Foster's name is up there with them.
Without wanting to wander into hyperbole, the genres covered on Nameless Path really are amazing.
From an acoustic country track ('You My Love') to a Motown-influenced soul number ('The Room'), it seems Foster is ambitious enough to leave nothing untouched.
Thankfully, everything fits on the album without seeming like an odd inclusion, or out of place.
Indeed, it flows surprisingly well despite the quick changes in tone and genre from track to track.
It also cements Foster as a wide-ranging songwriter, which only strengthens his prospects.
Songs like 'I Don't Need To Lose You' are beautiful and moving, a complete contrast to the funky 'Rushes & Reeds', which sees Foster's vocals not dissimilar to Hendrix.
Perhaps it's too early to say, but it definitely looks like Marcus Foster will be a name everyone will know by the end of the year.
Nameless Path is an unpredictable, exciting and consistently brilliant record, seamlessly and fearlessly crossing genres to create something quite special.
Female First - Alistair McGeorge