Better known for his stirring live performances than his recorded back catalogue, "sophisticated" isn't a term often associated with Christy Moore. Legendary and iconic, absolutely, but he's hardly the picture of refinement. But "Listen" is sophisticated - a sophisticated and sombre low key folk record. Recorded with long-time buddy and touring partner Declan Sinnot (him from The Horslips and Moving Hearts), "Listen" proves there's more to Moore than a sweaty purveyor of Irish folk sounds, presenting a collection of thoughtful and sincere acoustic songs.

He may be known for his take on Irish traditional music, but Christy's folk ranges from blues and Americana to Spanish roots. The latter proves one of the albums highlights on "The Disappeared (Los Desaparacidos)", a moving Latino lament suggested by Amnesty International to remember those who have disappeared. "The Ballad of Ruby Walsh" is driven forward by a timeless trad groove, while his cover of "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" simplifies Pink Floyd's tune down to its bare bones with subtle string arrangements and tantalizing harmonies.

The downfall of "Listen" is the hint of cheesy dad-rock that permeates tracks like "Duffy's Cut" and the Sinnot-sung tragic love song, "I Will." That, coupled with the abundance of country soaked ballads means that Christy is unlikely to win over any new fans with this one. It may not tread new ground for Irish folk, or even for Moore himself, but "Listen" is a beautifully understated gem nonetheless.