ANY RELEASE from a drummer in a group is likely to cause at best, mild concern. When the time-keeper in question is Josh Tillman, and the band Fleet Foxes, then it might garner a flicker of interest.

In truth though, anyone hoping for more of the Foxes’ choral magic will be disappointed. Instead, we have a stark, lo-fi record in the scratched, open and bleeding tradition of Elliott Smith’s early solo albums. Tillman’s emotionally bruised lyrics will not be to everyone’s taste, but the no-frills recording style suits the material.

Tillman has the nous to vary the material and add a number of unexpected melodic touches. Tillman isn’t yet distinctive enough to really stand out, but he could have the potential to mark out his own realm if he doesn’t encounter too much happiness to knock him off course.