artist: Honeyroot country of origin: UK style(s): Ambient pop, lounge, Balearic, cinematic essential releases: Sound Echo Location (2003, One World Music/Just Music)

Is it possible to actually capture light in your music? That's what seems to have happened on UK duo Honeyroot's wonderful debut album Sound Echo Location, a worthy contender for best ambient pop release of 2003. This is a summer album so cool it gives you goosebumps.

Seasoned musicians Glenn Gregory (vocalist from 80's synth popsters Heaven 17) and Keith Lowndes (ex-ABC) had actually been in each other's orbit for many years previous to this, producing a number of albums together for other artists. But this was the first time they'd attempted something in a lounge/ambient pop vein.

The album takes you to a place where orchestral film music, Cafe del Mar, Zero 7and Air are all easily recognisable reference points. Yet the music transcends the familiarity of its sounds thanks to the duo's extraordinary craft and a genuine depth of feeling. The mix of instrumental and subtle vocal tracks offers diversity aplenty and occasional nods to dancefloor electronica. The music glows with a sense of joy that's rare even in the sunny Ibiza-soaked world of chillout records. Is it revolutionary? Not really. Is it good? My word, yes.

The follow-up The Sun Will Come (2007) is more conventional and vocal-orientated pop and simply not in the same league; Sound Echo Location is the Honeyroot album to own.

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