Starless & Bible Black are a Manchester band that debuts here with their first full-length. They had previously released and EP on Timberlake. This trio puts its absorption of American country, folk and blues, with a twist of knowing electronic crooning, to create a solid record that is neither derivative nor challenging, but is fun and human. Put Billy Childish or a chastened M. Gira in front of a keyboard, with fiddle close by, and you get this: a warm, intimate folk experience by a band that hints at a deeper sound.

?Time Is For Leaving? and ?Everyday and Everynight? shimmer like Brit folkies Fairport Convention, showing that the band has paid attention on the homefront too. Vocalist H?l?ne Gautier is haunting and inviting, like a relative leaning in to tell you a story no one in the family wants you to hear (?Sirene?, ?The Bitter Cup?). With backing by Peter Philipson on guitars, chordophones, and Raz Ullah on keys & other drones, this is catchy folk with a sublime twist. Catch it on a moody day and be happily haunted 8/10 -- Mike Wood (23 October, 2006)