Like Tori Amos, Irglova – keyboardist half of The Swell Season and star of the movie Once – plays the piano like an extension of her body. Listening to Anar is an enchanting, soothing experience, something comforting and exquisite to listen to as the longer days draw the evenings out into a long, soft glow. Standout track Crossroads isn’t in English, but you’ll still feel her intentions through the raised hair on your arms; Anar benefits from the influence of a variety of cultures, as ancient as Persia and modern as Sufjan Stevens.

Fiona Hardy is from Readings Carlton