When listening to the Gentle Waves you have to wonder whether Isobel Campbell would have made records as lovely as this without the Belle and Sebastian influence. Not to underestimate her talent, but the title track does bear an uncanny resemblance to ‘The Model’ from B&S’s last LP.
Somehow though, it’s better than that. Maybe it’s the almost continental-sounding vocals, lilting along over harpsichords. Or perhaps it’s the chorus that sticks in your head. Most likely it’s the fact that Campbell has a beautiful, beautiful voice, unrivalled on today’s indie scene. Effortless.
