Ray Hearne's new album, Umpteen, has recently been released – his first for 6 years and well-worth waiting for. Ray is something of a living legend in South Yorkshire. First and foremost he's a poet who has a wonderful gift for capturing the places and people of the region (and wider issues) in a witty, acerbic and beautifully-crafted way, bringing together the thoughts and experiences of the ex-steelworker and the talented English Literature graduate in a mixture that takes you to the very heart of the area. When set to music, sometimes using tunes that have the comforting ring of familiarity, his words make unique songs that he performs in a robust and engaging South Yorkshire accent with a touch of Irish lilt, accompanied by accomplished and delicate guitar playing. Many of Ray's songs have become local anthems and there are several on this new album that are likely to do the same. This has to be one of the best new albums I've heard so far this year.

Ray Hearne