The legendary Ocean Way Studios, the setting for Heigh-Ho, conjure up images of California sun. But if ever a record belonged in the realm of Rainy Day Albums, it's Mills' second - gaze out a wet window while listening and a whole afternoon could disappear between the drops and songs.
Already a go-to guitarist and producer whose client list includes Neil Diamond, Norah Jones, Alabama Shakes and Band of Horses, Mills sings and plays a lot older than his 26 years, making you wonder just how much power he'll have aged 40.
On Heigh-Ho he casts himself very much as a work in progress: the first half is glorious with two gorgeous Fiona Apple duets in succession; the second half's impact is diminished because the jaunty Before It Fell belongs on a different record and Shed Your Head is a jam session.
Still, it's great to encounter a talent who has clearly learned from the greats but isn't trying to ape them as he finds his way. The future is in good hands – here's hoping for more rain.
Harry Guerin
