As someone who has kept an eye on Kathryn Williams’ career thus far I am still unable to truly call myself a fan. Or at least until this record came along. This album, The Pond, is a collaboration between Simon Edwards (formerly of Fairground Attraction) and Ginny Clee and represents a fresh sound for Kathryn and a chance to move her away from her folk rut.

It’s Kathryn, folks, but not as we know it! Not so folk. There’s a lot more going on – a whole level or two up in terms of excitement, at least two levels up in terms of what is going on. It’s a record punctuated by floating melodies, understated yet funky beats, ethereal vocals and a whole lot of excitement.

Opening song ‘Carved’ eases us gently into proceedings with a traditionally folk sound with some of those funky beats joining the party. ‘Circle Round The Tree’ sounds like Mint Royale dancing with Paul Simon at a wedding. ‘Bebop’ has a laid back country twang to it and has the added vocals of rapper Kirsch over the top. It’s ambitious and daring and it genuinely works. Country-rap could end up sounding like Kid Rock but it works. It’s enjoyable.

The Pond is a great and most welcome record to my collection. It may have taken her 13 years but Williams has shown that she can experiment and step away from her trademark folk sound and make splendid album. If she was preaching to the converted before then she most certainly won’t be, with this album certain to gain her a new following away from her cult.

‘The Pond’ is released on 28th May