Solaris is one of the most sophisticated, intelligent and satisfying rock albums of the year.

Like the band’s eponymous debut CD from last year, this is a thoroughbred set from a great bunch of North Yorkshire musicians, again produced by the American Jim Wirt.

Led by chief songwriter Alex Davies, their musicianship manifests itself in the great harmonies and intricate vocal arrangements which elevate Elliott Minor ahead of almost all of their contemporaries.

Although such harmonies can often be found on the best American R&B works, rarely does this degree of vocal eloquence enter the rock arena, which may ultimately be the reason why Elliot Minor suffer from a lack of decent radio exposure.

But for those prepared to listen, Solaris contains a rich trove of nuggets waiting to be discovered, not least the title track and the latest single, Electric High.

In many respects, Elliot Minor bear favourable comparison with the likes of Jim Steinman, Toto, Journey and early Genesis. All of them struggled to find an audience, but when they broke into the mainstream they became massive. Elliot Minor are York’s best band. Don’t stop believing, guys, this album is brilliant.