They say that a change is as good as a rest and many musicians know this old proverb to be true. Cian Nugent is certainly one of them.

His third album Night Fiction marks a notable departure – it’s the first LP where he assumes the role of singer as well as virtuoso guitar-slinger.

Preferring to let his vocals tell the stories instead of the six-string, Nugent’s transition from instrumental compositions to more traditional, soul and blues-informed numbers is remarkably smooth. Indeed, one wonders why he is only now finding his singing voice.

Sounding like a mix between early Van Morrison and J. Mascis, Nugent’s crooked croon adds plenty of emotion to both the brass-infused ‘Shadows’ and the hugely uplifting ‘Lost Your Way’, which also boasts some superb guitar playing. However, fans of his instrumental work shouldn’t fret. They will doubtless adore his gorgeously fluid performance on the acoustic ‘Lucy’, as well as the epic folk and blues freak-out ‘Year Of The Snake’. Impressive stuff.

Key Track: ‘Year Of The Snake’

Out Now On Woodsist

7/10