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As one of the founder members of influential Glasgow act The Delgados, Emma Pollock made a huge contribution to indie music. Since the mid-'90s the band were responsible for some of the most bewitching records ever made and also launched the innovative Chemikal Underground label, launching the careers of Arab Strap, Mogwai, Bis, Aereogramme and countless others.
While the label continues to be highly active, Pollock's old band sadly parted ways in 2005 and she subsequently decided to pursue a solo career. This debut work is the collected fruits of her labour since the split and proves that the singer/songwriter is still capable of dishing out glorious guitar music.
A warm, quiet and graceful listen, Watch The Fireworks is definitely reminiscent of Pollock's former creations in its beguiling melodies, beautiful harmonies, soothing vocals and soaring choruses which seemingly seep out of nowhere. This will go some way to appeasing expectant Delgados fans, however, more interestingly the record also allows her to find her own voice for the first time and experiment with completely different song structures, instrumentation and subject matter.
Highlights come in the shape of Acid Test, Paper And Glue, You'll Come Around, Adrenaline, Here Comes The Heartbreak, The Optimist and If Silence Means That Much To You; all songs which creep under your skin from first listen and while admittedly not every track is as impressive as these seven, they give ample reason to invest in the album.
The world is undoubtedly a sadder place without The Delgados but with Emma Pollock on form like this, there is more than enough reason to smile.
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