Simone Felice returns with a new solo album that includes contributions from his kin The Felice Brothers and Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites of The Lumineers. It finds him sounding more relaxed, mature and carefree than ever before and at under 40 minutes it’s a masterclass in economical, emotive and melodic songwriting. It harnesses the sound of the Catskill Mountains while also carrying a Laurel Canyon vibe, bursting with soul influences, folk fragility and some epic pop touches. Felice is boldly charting his own course, letting the songs ride roughshod over any concept of market, brand or scene and Strangers is his best yet.

Chris Familton

this review was first published in The Music