CD Reviews: City Oh Sigh

Wellington outfit City Oh Sigh's debut album might delve into themes of love, loss and loneliness, but Fragments Fine is more joyous than mournful, albeit in a quiet, reflective way that follows on from the gentle promise of 2011 EP Like A Light.

Led by singer-songwriter and cellist Kate Uhe, friends Sarah Smythe (vintage Rhodes) and Catherine Henehan (guitar, vocals and trumpet) are joined by recent recruit Hikurangi Schaverein, whose background in jazz drumming adds to the ethereal complexity of a set that, in an understated yet assured way, begs repeated listening.

• City Oh Sigh. Fragments Fine. Home Alone Music.

• 4 stars out of 5

Single download: Sometimes
For those who like: The Unthanks, Bon Ivor

- Shane Gilchrist