Midlake - The Trials Of Van Occupanther

This album was a throwback to another era, with plenty of nods to the likes of Fleetwood Mac and Neil Young. An album which was so out of time and based on the life of a fictional character living in rural United States 100 years ago shouldn’t really work. But soaring vocals from Tim Smith, backed up by superb lyrics and some outstanding arrangements creates a vivid picture of life a century ago. It was a refreshing change at the time of its release, and one that would herald the arrival of Fleet Foxes two years later. (Eamonn Halpin)