DRUGDEALER Vinyl & CDs

Review: "I told her my plight, then I played her a song, and she told me I wasn't singing high enough for my speaking voice. When I returned to LA, I started coming up with new progressions, which I'd modulate up three half steps. It forced me to find a new way to sing."

So says Drugdealer founder, singer and primary songwriter Michael Collins of his chance meeting with composer-artist Annette Peacock at Mexican Summer's annual Marfa Myths festival, their conversation concerning his lack of faith in his own singing voice which, by this point, had become crippling to the point of giving up. Taking that sage advice and applying it, Hiding In Plain Sight is the result - an incredible exercise in modern soul-rock and an instant classic.

Review: Following the release of Drugdealer's second album in 2019, founder and front man Michael Collins was ready to call time on the band and his music career. A chance meeting with artist and composer Annette Peacock, who suggested he revisit his singing style, not only changed his mind, but also gave him a new creative lease of life. The results, as showcased on Hiding In Plain Sight, are undeniably impressive. Sitting somewhere between Steely Dan, the blue-eyed soul of Boz Scaggs and lilting Americana, the album is awash with deftly deep, emotional and gorgeous songs. Our picks of a very strong bunch include the brilliant 'Madison', the Clavinet-and-Rhodes heavy wamth of 'Someone To Love' and the 'Josie'-esque excellence of 'Pictures of You', where Kate Bollinger delivers a stunning lead vocal.