Reviewed by Stephen Luff

Foldinglights, otherwise known as Michael Ball, is a Belfast-based singer/songwriter who's been around for a few years and whose 'Exiles' EP got a rave review back in 2017. Picked up by Britain's bright independent label 7Core Music, 'Subterranean Hum' offers Michael's passionate musings on faith, love and honesty. Musically a mostly acoustic collection, there are pleasant surprises such as the rock-driven "American Jesus" (previously released as a single) and "Wolf In Devil's Clothing". "Roses", very much in the acoustic camp, beautifully conveys the frailty of the human condition which is typical of this artist's writing talent, while "Consider" is an honest prayer of a man crying out. This is an outstanding debut which will speak to many and delivers more with each listen. The one difficulty is that there isn't a track here with radio-friendly immediacy and that will stop it from getting to too many people outside of Northern Ireland.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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