Byrns cites inspirations as diverse as Brazilian music from the 1920’s, contrasting with the 1970’s acts such as Haroumi Hosono, Jonathan Richman and Lou Reed.

The first full length effort from Rainn Byrns shines with impactful songwriting and was recorded at his home studio in Peckham, London. Impressively, he played and recorded all of the instruments himself using exclusively analogue equipment. Citing inspirations as diverse as Brazilian music from the 1920’s, contrasting with the 1970’s acts such as Haroumi Hosono, Jonathan Richman and Lou Reed – Byrns’ eclectic taste comes across throughout ‘New In Town’.

The album begins with title track ’New In Town’, which clocks in at just under two-and-a-half minutes, it sets the tone with expressive lyrics about being somewhere new and unfamiliar, telling of how hope can turn into self-doubt. ‘Big’ picks up a faster tempo, with shuffling drums supplying the beat for Byrns to lay down spiralling vocal melodies and twangy guitars. ‘How Can I Get You Out Of My Life’, a re-cut of Byrns’ first ever release, gives space for drums and bass to shine as they supply choppy fills and expressive licks through the track’s tempo changes and pauses.

Side 2 of the record kicks off with ’Never Ending Story’, a song all about how the South London songwriter dreads the never-ending repetition of life, but must look towards the positives. ‘Big Boy Boots’ slows things down with a trippy undertone, before ‘Tailspin’ lifts us back up with a faster pace and contrasting lyrical melancholy. It’s jam-packed with the type of subtle hits that we’ve come to expect from the beautifully lo-fi-loving musician. Vocal melodies flow over jangling guitars as Byrns’ signature blend of honesty meets humour.

Buy vinyl, decorated test pressings or stream the album here.

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