The Dial WaltzKicking a Can Records ***

Cork’s Boa Morte haven’t had the best luck in the world when it comes to releases; first, their planned debut on US label Moodfood was scuppered (although eventually released to rave reviews in 2002), and its follow-up has been done, dusted and waiting in the wings since 2005. Such protraction only epitomises the quartet’s measured musical pace perfectly, though.

The Dial Waltz

is a warm, earthy folk album, brimming with sloping, melancholic electric guitar and understated percussion. Paul Ruxton’s voice is suitably sombre for tunes like the gorgeous

Priceless Prize,

his baritone falling somewhere between Adrian Crowley and Bill Callahan. Boa Morte may not be for everyone, but the slow, steady tick of these songs will provide comfort on cool evenings. See boamorte.com

Download tracks: Priceless Prize, Luminous Plankton