Level CrossingToomstone Music ***

Languid and unforced, Donnacha Toomey’s second album has taken its own sweet time in gestating, and it shows. This Limerick artist plies a fine trade in spacious, reflective songwriting, married with clear-headed, pithy lyrics that let the listener in, rarely forcing a particular view. Co-producer Tony O’Flaherty lends a firm hand, and highly inventive Hammond organ, clarinet, flute and countless other instrumental lines.

Van Morrison's ability to transcend time and place echo sporadically on Level Crossing. Toomey treads a route through tales of intimacy and hope with a remarkable lightness of touch. Nine Lives is a typical calling card: louche, loose-limbed but never aimless in its arc of flight. Toomey's minimalist use of mandolin, banjo and ukulele bring another dimension, colouring and shading a cohesive but unfettered collection. donnacha toomey.com

Download: Nine Lives