Jerry Lawson album ‘Just a Mortal Man’ out now

An album seemingly four decades in the making, ‘Just a Mortal Man’ is something of a low key musical milestone. With a global career as a member of The Persuasions and Talk of the Town, Jerry Lawson had released a total of 22 albums until this past Monday, but never as a solo performer.

And now, this much loved artist has released his first album under his own name – and a great album it is too.

Warm and welcoming as a cup of tea after a winter’s day (hard to imagine in the current weather…), the album is a genuine treat. 13 tracks of such great class, full with the experience and gravitas only a lifetime on the stage can really bring.

From the bluesy opening of ‘Peace Like A River’ to the stripped back acoustic shuffle of ‘I’ll Come Running Back To You’ at the close, it simply oozes charm. If you’re looking for a comparison, think a raspier, even more relaxing Michael Kiwanuka.

Jess Thristan – ‘Live on Love’, new EP and video

Light on its feet and with a lovely sense of fun, this is the latest video from excellent UK songwriter Jess Thristan. ‘Live on Love’ is the title track from her new EP, which was released on Monday.

Having always loved a touch of acoustic country, Jess Thristan has fully embraced it with this particular track, giving it a beautiful, lilting style that really helps it stick out. It very much suits the weather around the UK at the moment too – a perfect summer song to match those blue skies.

Combining the upbeat with the laid back is a difficult trick to pull off, but this lovely magician has continued a hot run of form by doing just that.