It’s fair to say I’ve been increasingly excited by the direction Manchester’s Shield Patterns have taken this past few months… so much so that I recently collaborated with vocalist Claire Brentnall on Visions. Originally a solo project, the addition of multi-instrumentalist Richard Knox has added depth and texture to Claire’s sound, and as such her ideas seem to be flourishing.

Taken from a forthcoming debut album, lead single Dust Hung Heavy is wrapped up in a sensual mist of shimmering electronica. Claire’s vocals are always so understated and expressive; quietly beautiful rather than demanding to be heard. Each carefully chosen breath, word and piano note finding form together, creating a very personal and lucid dream.

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Phill Young