Benjamin Clementine’s supple timbre and
unique phrasing assume the spotlight on
this notable full-length major-label debut album. Rarely does such an affecting vocalist
surface––even rarer, one with such original
je ne sais quoi. The formerly homeless
Londoner’s compositions remain sparse, allowing his unexpected intonations to carry the day with intriguing results. Yet, in the end, it is that very minimalism in combination with his uncommon singing style which makes these songs curiously inaccessible, resulting in an admirable recording that fails to inspire repeated spins. – Andy Kaufmann