The Android Angel – Glow Worm

Glow Worm is the second album by Paul Colto (aka The Android Angel); an artist unwilling to pander to any fad, or attempt to fit into any pigeon hole. Puzzling from the outset, with what sounds like Aerosmith’s ‘Walk This Way’ played on botempi drums opening proceedings. Such non-conformity may well confound expectations; but also provide much of the charm.

Regardless of the unconventional sonic palette, the bulk of the record is made up of solid song-writing propelled by relentless ambition. Paul follows in the footsteps of a young Pete Townsend; producing aspirational and emotive music overflowing with ideas. There are places where he even replicates bursts of guitar that could have originated from the whirlwind arm of The Who’s maestro himself. Vocally his gentle tones have much in common with Jarvis Cocker and Scott Walker; often taking centre stage, but never becoming overbearing.

Once all these elements have been boiled down what remains is an album that cannot be tethered to any period in history. Granted it’s distinctly old-fashioned (in the best possible way). It’s also warm and welcoming like the glow worm from which it derives its name. Like watching the sun set on a summer’s evening whilst enjoying your favourite tipple – everything feels like it’s going to work out just fine.

Amongst the best of what is on offer are ‘Our Secret’ and ‘Second Base’. Here Paul’s voice and xylophone take to the dance floor – sometimes following one-another step for step, then breaking off to perform for the pleasure of the other. Both are perfectly constructed and provide ever increasing bouts of joy on subsequent plays.

As the album comes to a close the final two tracks take an unwelcome break from the experimentation and imagination. ‘For A Sleepless Friend’ swiftly descends towards jazz café singer and ‘The Beginning Of The End’ lacks the sparkle of anything that came before it. Sadly this leaves a saccharin taste in the mouth at the end of what is otherwise a varied sweet trolley of audible delights.