After seven years in New York, Dubliner Mark Geary has returned to his native city - and he's brought back a superb debut album that instantly catapults him to the forefront of the indie scene. Clearly inspired by the fragile spirits of Neil Young and Nick Drake, 33 1-3 Grand Street is a beautiful collection of compelling folk-pop that gains added resonance from Geary's impeccably soulful vocals. Exuding an air of gentle vulnerabillity, his gently meandering songs have a soothing, lullaby effect that's sure to sooth even the most troubled of spirits. Like many solo projects, this one borders on the self-indulgent at times, and some listeners may find the general air of wistfulness a little wearing over the course of an entire album. On the whole, however, this exceptionally accomplished debut marks the arrival of a notable new home-grown talent - and one who deserves to be cherished.
