I'll Get Along
Label: Polydor Records
Michael Kiwanuka is a folkie whose Home Again recalls the likes of Terry Callier and Raul Midon. He arrives to our shores at a time when American tastes for UK soul seems insatiable, whether it's the big-hearted pop of Adele or the light musings of Corinne Bailey Rae. Kiwanuka's charms are modest - he has a raspy, declamatory old-school voice reminiscent of Richie Havens, and a warm '60s pop sound to weave tales of love ("Tell Me a Tale") and spirituality ("I'm Getting Ready"). He sounds less of an individual talent than the sum of his influences, but his work shows promise.