Aaron Duff (the local singer/songwriter working as Hector Gannet) has been lauded by the likes of Sam Fender, but it’s another Tyneside legend he shares more in common with and that’s Lindisfarne’s Alan Hull. Like Hull, Duff has the ability to furnish his tales with arresting imagery; and, also like Hull, he pens a mean, melodic tune. This – Hector Gannet’s second album – is superb, a folk-meets-indie-rock collection of songs that are shot through with humanity and compassion. If you’re not yet on board with this fella, then this release is the perfect time to do so. DP

Released 27 January on Guga Records