Hear the “Hushed and Hymnal” Songs of Rising British Troubadour Benjamin Francis Leftwich at Mao Live, June 16

There’s gently soothing music, and then there’s the songs of the UK's Benjamin Francis Leftwich. Both of the 27-year-old singer-songwriter’s albums – 2011’s Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm and 2016’s After the Rain – were both noted for having gorgeous and brass tacks acoustic numbers.

Some critics and fans loved this quaint combination, while others have had a more jaded response. The funniest amongst the latter might very well be a reviewer at Q Magazine who wrote that After the Rain’s songs “suggest their final destination may be as soundtracks for … sunsets on Instagram.”

The Guardian however, were far more positive, praising the "hushed and hymnal" atmosphere of the songs and imploring listeners to be patient. “Give them time, and these songs seep in like damp in an old building – never more so than the beautifully ethereal ‘Groves.’”

That particular song is dedicated to Leftwich’s father, who died of cancer before he began penning it and the rest of After the Rain’s tunes. A heart-wrencher of a ballad, “Groves'” lyrics depict Leftwich by his old man’s death bed, and as the song progresses it turns heartache into a triumphant moment of solidarity, as he promises to "Follow in your footsteps/When I walk away the sadness in the snow."

But even if you don’t listen closely to the lyrics, it’s hard not to be moved by Leftwich’s singing style. Sure, it’s mellow and subdued, but not in a depressing way. And despite Q Magazine’s misgivings, After the Rain is by no means one note, with songs like “Some Other Arms,” featuring a soaring, albeit restrained anthemic tone. “She Will Sing,” meanwhile, has foot-stomping percussion and a grooving electronica backdrop.

This all makes sense, given Leftwich’s earlier comments to the BBC about his influences like The National, Arcade Fire, and his admission that “I listen to Ryan Adams and (Bruce) Springsteen every day.”

So if you’re not into banging your head, and would rather sway to some sweetly strummed melodies, then be sure to check out this intimate acoustic gig.

Also be sure to check out Split Works gig promoter Krish Raghav's excellent Leftwich essay/playlist here.

Leftwich will perform at Mao Livehouse on June 16 at 9pm. Tickets are RMB 100 presale, RMB 150 at the door. For more information, click here.

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Photos: The Guardian