It’s been over five years since Bouts released their promising debut album ‘Nothing Good Gets Away’ and while we have had 2016’s superb ‘Unlearn’ EP in the interim it’s most welcome to see Bouts return with their latest long player.

Has ‘Flow’ been worth the wait? It certainly has, as Barry, Colin, Daniel & Niall have delivered an album that buzzes along sublimely with nine perfect indie tracks for us to enjoy.

Stop Pushing sets the template with a tune drenched in delightful jangly guitar riffs while By a Thread’s bassline is the majestic throbbing heart of another instant gem.

Love’s Lost Landing (Part 1) builds on this exquisite double blast exhorting us to “be good to yourself”. Its companion track later in the album Love’s Lost Landing (Part 2) is the standout track on a record. Its ear-worm chorus weaving over a delicious mix of guitar and synth it certainly makes a strong case for it being one of the indie anthems of 2019, even at this early stage of the year.

Face Up, the first single to be released from the album ramps up the energy once again, a robust indie rocker it’s destined to be a live favourite. Moving Fast & Slowa classy understated track offers a fine conclusion to proceedings.

‘Flow’ certainly bombs along at pace with none of the nine tracks overstaying their welcome, which compels you to immediately press play and enjoy it all over again.