Having recently illuminated the Aidan Moffat album ‘Everything’s Getting Older’, Bill Wells has travelled east to find his next collaboration. ‘Lemondale’ was recorded on a single day in Tokyo, pitching fourteen musicians together and allowing alchemy to ensue. Virtuoso pianist Satoko Fuji features alongside Jim O’Rourke on guitar, as Wells nurtures a gorgeous set of arrangements that are both cinematic and intimate. Balancing airy jazz and gentle loops, ‘Toon City’ manages to be both rich and airy, while the repeated refrain of the delightful title track is dappled in shimmering light. ‘Lemondale’ is a beautiful record – Wells has overseen a magical moment.
7/10
Words by JOHN FREEMAN
