The Sand Band's singer and guitarist David McDonnell will be playing in Noel Gallagher's new backing band, but don't hold that against him. In this instance, the elder Gallagher's ears are clearly in perfect nick: the Liverpudlian quintet's debut album is excellent. Its chief influences are drawn from either side of the Pennines, namely the more wistful, folk side of fellow Scouser Michael Head, leader of Gallagher favourites Shack, as well as the shimmering ballads of Sheffield's Richard Hawley. Somehow, McConnell is even more melancholic than either, making this the ideal accompaniment to a quietly nursed pint.