If you fell in love with the Kings of Convenience Quiet Is the New Loud, or Turin Brakes' debut, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Veneer will do the same for you. The quiet, acoustic picking, like a modern Simon and Garfunkel, or a mellower Iron and Wine, delivers songs of sheer beauty, mixed with Latin charm. A Swede, with Argentinian parents, this album was recorded at home on the most basic of equipment, and makes nods to flamenco music, Elliot Smith and, perhaps, even Joy Division. Its range is exquisite, recalling Paul Simon solo, and at his prime, or a Mark Kozelek with a classical guitar degree. This album has already been a huge breakthrough in Europe, and the talent is almost breathtaking - magical and gorgeous. Easily one of the best albums I have heard all year. It is difficult to think of an area in which it could be improved.

ACE rating 10/10

When they first popped up, Alfie were 'the new Oasis' to many critics (must have been the Mancunian thing). On the evidence of this latest disc, they are maturing as the 'new Teenage Fanclub', or 'the more listenable Gomez', blending as it does a solid mix of summery pop, likeable tunes and intricacy, topped off with a voice that is almost classic British folk. Fans of the Super Furry Animals will find a lot to like here, with its nods to early 70s California, fuzzed up and entirely pleasant in outlook. There is a lot of positive energy in the complexity on display here, with its sweeping, soaring harmonies and Stone Roses rhythms. Crying at Teamtime may just be Alfie's best, and that's pretty good as a comparison in its own right.

ACE rating 8/10

Like a haunting Western soundtrack, Bodies and Minds shimmers in, all softly strummed guitar, pedal steel, and winsome vocals, like Neil Young in quiet, reflective moment. Their second album, this is like the first in being a late night listen, for the times when you want to seep in the soundscape on offer, like a Radox bath. However, it takes a few listens to begin to appreciate the subtly different takes on the Americana mood that each song represents, as some drift too close to Cowboy Junkies' monotone or Will Oldham. Then, standout tracks start to emerge - typically the ones with the greatest dynamic range,, such as Various Stages, or the title track. It is clear that Great Lake Swimmers aimed at beauty, found it and continued to mine the vein of gold. Just don't expect to like it as much on first listen.

ACE rating 7/10