Sure, second albums are supposed to be an advance from the first, but this is ridiculous. The miserable indie- pop of Witness's debut Before The Calm has disappeared completely and in its place is an expansive, optimism-drenched sound with so much energy you'd swear it's on steroids. Frontman Gerard Starkie is not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve and he sings these uplifting love songs with an urgent soulfulness that's touching in its sincerity. For the most part Under A Sun is joyful and stirring stuff, highly reminiscent at times of a British REM. Still not quite the finished article but a giant step in the right direction.