I admit I'm a bit of a Maria Chiara fan, so it's almost impossible to be objective, but from the beautiful (arguably more mainstream jazz) sounds of her earlier albums, to some of her fab collaborations, not least the sublime 'Flow' with Jamie Leeming (as aramii), on to 2022's wonderful 'Forest City' and now to this one, her genre-hopping is something I'm totally addicted to, simply because of her artistic integrity. The vinyl of 'Closer' is fantastic - just buy it!

Kaya's el & ac bass playing is integral to Alfa Mist's glorious music, but she sprinkles 'fairy dust' when she also sings (usually just one beautiful track per album or show). These two wonderful songs perfectly illustrate her gifts and those of the superb Jamie Leeming (side a), Johnny Woodham (side b - I'm pretty sure it's him?) & Richard Spaven. The cover painting is yet another example of Kaya's amazing talents. Looking fwd to my 7" arriving. Favourite track? Both, of course!