Tricks and Sleeves is a four-piece band from Auckland and this is an impressive, polished introduction, strong and confident and lush from the get-go. Full-sounding production, beautiful songwriting, a rich vocal, complementary musicianship, a clear vision and vibe. Vaguely country-ish, in the same way that Calexico is, so yes and no. Other vibes include Coldplay, Ryan Adams, even The Waterboys. The key is songs that immediately engage and feel timeless. There’s a familiarity and an originality at the same time, each track offering something unique, or magical or interesting. Or all of the above.

Vocalist / guitarist Karl Jacobsen returned from a USA sojourn in 2012 and wanted to form a band with bestie Gareth Van Niekerk, who plays drums, keyboards and sings BVs. They are joined by two more Jacobsens – Aaron on bass and vocals and Jesse on guitar, keys and vox. No wonder there’s an Evermore vibe, an intimacy that is effortless and can’t be manufactured. A quality of album the creators can be truly proud of.