Life are making a welcome return with ‘ABSTRACT/NATURAL’. The Hull band’s fourth album, it started life in a poetry book that frontman Mez had been writing while exploring the great outdoors. These musings on nature, landscapes, love and acceptance found Mez transforming hills, ridges and landmarks into incredible characters in what he playfully described as ‘wonky lullabies’. His bandmates then build them into something much more…

Opener ‘Wild Grasses’ is a charming, chiming introduction to the album that brings to mind the rawness and chamber pop melodies of James, while recent single ‘The Dollywaggon’ is a hit from the very first note with its words about having a ‘right to roam’ and singalong chorus. ‘Turning In’ was also released ahead of the album, and it’s an exciting piece of art rock with a tender touch: ‘At night, we fit so perfectly’.

‘Thistles Kiss’ is another atmospheric slow-burner that finds Mez talking about things being ‘so bougie and so sad’ against a lilting chamber pop sound, before then demanding ‘Bring me the kiss of thistles’. ‘Mermaid Feet’ continues with great restraint and poignancy – ‘In the wind I wish to go’ – while ‘My Yan’ has a specific, slightly heartbreaking demand: ‘Grasp at the freedom that was never mine’. ‘Drinking Games’ follows with a Graham Coxon-esque sound and a proud declaration: ‘When summer comes, I’m dry again’.

‘Sun in Nancy’ continues with this celebratory tone – ‘I often see planes above and I feel free’ – and angular, wiry guitar riffs while ‘Buried Giant’ recalls XTC or Wire with call-and-response vocals and moments of pride (‘I feel alive’) and anxiety (‘I feel like I’m fading away’). ‘Morning Fog’ closes the album in swaying, soothing fashion, Mex repeatedly declaring ‘I can hear your song, your light is on’ with great pride.

‘ABSTRACT/NATURAL’ is an album filled with joy and beauty. It’s one that makes you love Life.