The world isn't exactly short of Irish singer songwriters at present yet it's always nice to report when there's a great new addition to the list. Declan O'Rourke looks like quite an unassuming fellow and stylistically his music is hardly groundbreaking; exploring the fine tradition of folk and occasionally dabbling in rockier territory. Yet the execution of it all is one of quiet understatement; O'Rourke never over-emotes but is always emotional whilst his songs encompass great storytelling backed up by the all-important fine tunes. The subtle string arrangements of 'No Place To Hide' and 'We Didn't Mean To Go To Sea' carry deserved comparisons with Nick Drake whereas diversions into FM radio rock ('No Brakes') and uptempo material ('Your World') prove that he's unafraid of making a slight gear change if the mood takes him. Most significantly, though, 'Galileo' and 'Sarah' sound like classics from thirty years ago but the fact they are original compositions speaks volumes for O'Rourke's songcraft. For this is a beautifully arranged record from a real classy performer.