Admittedly late to Richard Hawley, especially his most recent release Lady’s Bridge, but I’d be remiss to not mention it’s captivating qualities. Once finding a way into my car’s stereo system it’s been nearly impossible to supplant. It is, with strong certainty, a beautiful late-night driving record. Perfect for the smooth ride from Milwaukee back home this evening, hovering just over the posted limit, trying to count all the stars in the sky.

Hawley cut his teeth and became famous holding down guitar duties for Pulp, whose other famous member also released a solo album this year. Hawley however is no stranger to stepping out on his own, Coles Corner is anchored in brilliance, though not to the extent in which we’ve come to adore Lady’s Bridge.

The album has a universal appeal that reminds me a lot of last year’s James Hunter album that we ended up really liking. On certain tracks listeners may pick up a vocal similarity to M. Ward, especially evident on the title track and “The Sea Calls.”

Richard Hawley plays the Abbey Pub in Chicago on Thursday, December 6th. Lady’s Bridge is out now on Mute Records we highly recommend it.

Myspace: Richard Hawley
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Download: eMusic
Buy: Insound