With the release of his debut album ‘Geography’ in 2018, a 22-year-old Tom Misch introduced himself as a talented singer-songwriter, producer and musician. He has worked on a range of projects in the years since, with the Yussef Dayes collaboration What Kind of Music rubbing shoulders with Supershy, but it’s only now that he returns with his second solo album, ‘Full Circle’. Is it worth the eight-year wait? Once again combining elements of jazz, indie-rock, afrobeat and more, the answer is yes.
From the opening beats of Flowers in Bloom, it’s clear this is a luxurious, expertly crafted record. Its soundscape rolls over you, offering a feeling of pure escapism. It retains the dry vocal delivery of Misch’s previous work, but there is clear growth in the styles he’s dabbling in elsewhere. Everything feels a bit more fine-tuned and polished — there are plenty of layers but never too much going on.
Red Moon’s guitar licks recall the ‘70s funk era, jostling with more of a modern indie sound. It’s a fascinating listen that manages to capture the essence of both while feeling fresh. The almost spoken word vocal adds an extra dimension.
Slow Tonight, meanwhile, incorporates elements of R&B and disco, a departure from some of Misch’s other work. In spite of this slight stylistic shift, it doesn’t feel out of place, with some stellar guitar work. Sisters of Me is a gorgeous, jazz-anchored cut while Old Man is a straight-up indie track.
The two sit harmoniously alongside one another, such is Misch’s clear musical understanding and the breadth of his influences. ‘Full Circle’ is a more mature, nuanced record from Misch that shows his evolution as an artist. The crisp production and blend of styles feels fresh and vital. This is the work of a clear lover of music, channelling his passion into something truly rewarding and eye-opening.
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