Echelon
Windows Shut / This Room

If the standard fare of the Poptones label is becoming more predictable than rain in the summertime, Echelon are the more introspective exception to the rule.

Sounding more like a less agitated Doves or a less worthy Longview, 'Windows Shut' is equal parts paranoia, melodic wistfulness and simmering guitar bliss that is a million miles away from urch-rock like The Others and their ilk.

Its partner in crime 'This Room', meanwhile, is a slow burning grower similar to one of those catherine wheels you see on Guy Fawkes night that takes an age to start up before erupting into a meandering glisten of spectral light.

A welcome sight, then, as McGee challenges himself out of the safe seats and pushes the boat out for the first time in donkey's years.