One of the albums of the year - and from a completely unexpected source. Simian are a group of frock-coated Mancunians who create soulful, atmospheric pop infused with a child-like innocence. Their songs are things of real beauty, like lush daydreams that take in all manner of sounds from harmonicas to hoovers. A variety of late 60s influences make their presence felt here, from Pink Floyd to the Beach Boys, but Simian have a tinge of eerie psychedelia that gives them an identity all of their own. In short, anyone who thinks that the best pop music was all made years ago should investigate this immediately. Absolutely essential.
