Seeing as we're currently knee-deep in a purple-patch of female singer-songwriters, there's always the distinct possibility that someone really special might slip through the net and be left for future generations to rediscover... then plaster all over a mobile phone advert. As such, Helene is well worth a look right now - with her second LP 'Routines' showcasing the baked country style of the eponymous songstress whose distinct Englishness pervades throughout. Opening through the piano/guitar coalition of 'Firstlastforever', Helene displays an obvious parallel with the work of Mazzy Star - as fragrant vocals are buffeted in a most pleasing way by all manner of blossom scented melodies. Firming things up for next song 'Apostle', Helene strays pleasingly into the early catalogue of Lush for some jangling solitude, before 'Could I Go Backwards' arrives with a poignant and achingly piquant lament that successfully references the Wizard Of Oz. Polished to perfection by Simon Raymonde on production duties, 'Routines' is the kind of album that takes you away from the humdrum of Blair's Britain and allows you to float away to more innocent climes. And for that, we salute her! Delicious.