Paul Mangan describes his musical project Clockwork Orchestra as “strange music by a strange man”. His new album, however, comes under a whole new category of strange. ‘A Fish For A Heart’ provides the theme music for the best non-existent video game ever.

Clockwork Orchestra does not produce gimmicky tracks. It is guitar music at its very core, as seen on tracks like Thoughtful Thieves, that has been dressed up beyond any recognition. He thoughtfully and methodically creates narratives through diverse arrangements, tentative drumbeats and Mangan’s deadpan vocal delivery.

Production ranges from fast-paced and violent, to the delicate unconventional love song Puddle Fishing. Featuring harpsichord progressions, tittering symbals and violin sampling turned on its head. Despite the warping synths and ornate instrumentation, Mangan’s vocals remain the unique thing about the track, adopting a multitude of tones, accents and speeds. It’s almost impossible to identify him as Irish throughout the course of the album.

It would be naive to attempt to pigeon-hole ‘A Fish For A Heart’, as it too far-reaching in terms of genre. Percy has smacks of Britpop, and a sweet sounding melody, making it the catchiest song on the record. Lead single The Generator Girls whiffs of post-punk, while still maintaining a frenetic 80s energy. It’s difficult to envisage a place in the industry where ‘A Fish For A Heart’ fits – probably because Clockwork Orchestra is carving out its own path.

“I don’t want a ballerina dancing on my brain,” he says on Clean Clothes, Dirty Girl.

While not being overly emotional and out-of-control, the music is entertaining, light-hearted and full of warmth. The balance between the dark and the light is maintained well, with The Man With The Golden Noose cranking up the creep factor. Describing him as a bedroom producer seems unjust, considering the calibre of the songs on the album.

Mangan makes the process of replacing our vital organs sea creatures a remarkably enjoyable one. A fast-paced trippy, psychedelic trip, charged with enough electricity to supply the island for life, ‘A Fish For A Heart’ won’t be for everyone, but it should be. Something this strange needs to embraced with open arms.