Barry Can’t Swim – Loner (Ltd Ink Spot Vinyl LP)

He might not be able to swim but he can sure get a party started!

After the Edinburgh disc jockey served up a floorboard-buckling instore back in 2023, we’ve been impatiently waiting to hear what Barry (AKA Joshua Spence Mainnie) had up his sleeves for us next. And, whilst the album’s title –Loner– suggested a more sombre, cautious affair, he successfully fizzed back into our lives with more energy than a Jack Russell that’s just skulled a crateful of Red Bull.

His ebullient sophomore release careers through dizzying jump-up soundscapes, beats that could make your mother cry, and, on occasion, even dares to stop off for a little soulful reflection.

It’s time to toss aside those armbands and dive right into the deep end. The water’s bouncing.

1. The Person You’d Like To Be
2. Different
3. Kimpton (with O’Flynn)
4. All My Friends
5. About To Begin
6. Still Riding
7. Cars Pass By Like Childhood Sweethearts
8. Machine Noise For A Quiet Daydream (feat. Séamus)
9. Like It’s Part Of The Dance
10. Chosen
11. Marriage
12. Wandering Mt. Moon