Tomorrow will see  Luke Clerkin – release his album  ‘Orpheus’ and with the focus track ‘Home’ (which we already reviewed earlier this week) you can now read our full album review ahead of tomorrows release

Luke Clerkin’s debut album Orpheus feels like sitting down with an old friend who’s not afraid to lay their soul bare. Recorded across a mix of cozy and eclectic spaces—home studios, libraries, and even with a touch of Icelandic piano magic—the album offers an intimate exploration of love, heartbreak, and healing. With production by Gavin Doyle and stunning vocal features from Brid Lyons across several tracks, this is an album that carries weight, yet still manages to float.

The opener, “Wow Wow Wow,” sets the tone perfectly. It starts soft and raw, with Luke’s voice carrying this almost lonely vulnerability. But once the drums kick in, it’s like the song transforms into this cathartic summer anthem. The chorus is made for rolling down the windows and belting it out on a road trip, even though the lyrics cut deep—form me feels like it’s about a relationship that probably should’ve ended yesterday. Relatable, right? This one is going straight in my playlists.

Then comes “Star Song,” which feels like looking up at the night sky after a breakup. It’s catchy, bouncy, and builds like a supernova exploding right at the end. There’s a James Blunt 1973 vibe here, and Luke’s vocal range is in full bloom. It’s one of those tracks you’ll hum for hours after hearing it.

“Home” with Brid Lyons is a comforting, warm hug of a duet, one that I had the pleasure of recently reviewing and it transitions beautifully into the more angelic and reflective “Gloria.” This track feels like a happy-but-nostalgic ballad, with Luke’s vocals taking center stage in a softer, more restrained way.

But then Orpheus really grabs you with “Stones.” This one’s a personal favourite—it’s six minutes of pure lyrical and musical beauty. “Everything feels bigger when it’s all piled up, and little stones become boulders if they’re held for long enough.” That line alone is enough to make you stop in your tracks. It’s the kind of song that reminds you to breathe and let things go. Beautiful.

“Confession Box” switches things up with its almost conversational tone at times. It feels like you’re listening to Luke tell you a story over coffee, and that raw storytelling is what makes it so special. From there, tracks like “For What It’s Worth” and “Ricochet” bring us back to themes of self-worth and vulnerability, both lyrically powerful and instrumentally rich.

The closer, “Orpheus,” featuring Brid Lyons, is a proper finale. It starts heavy with guitar and slowly builds into this emotional high before mellowing out. It feels like the culmination of everything Luke has laid bare across the album—a perfect metaphorical full circle.

Throughout Orpheus, there’s a beautiful balance between introspection and big, anthemic moments. Luke wears his heart on his sleeve, and you feel that in every note. Whether he’s singing about love that burns fast and bright, or the slow journey of piecing yourself back together, there’s a sincerity that makes these songs hit home.

If you’re into heartfelt songwriting with a mix of catchy hooks and quieter, reflective moments, Orpheus is well worth a listen. It’s an album for anyone who’s been through it—and come out the other side. Give it a spin; you’ll be glad you did.

‘Orpheus’ makes it in at a nice 7.5 out of 10

Reviewer – Alan Robinson @alan_robinson_photography