Album: David Gray, Draw the Line, (Polydor)

Old wobbly-head is back with his songwriting as strong in places as it was circa White Ladder, the album that brought him to the attention of those living outside Ireland (where WL is still the biggest selling record of all time).

The title track is a high point, as is "Kathleen", a tasteful duet with Jolie Holland that is as every bit as subtle as "Full Steam" – a two-hander with Annie Lennox – is corny. There's no "Babylon" but plenty of Later with Jools-friendly pop-folk that will harm and challenge no one.