Pilgrim’s progress

Jimi Goodwin was formerly the frontman of indie rockers Doves. After more than a decade with the band he has released his first solo album. Odludek (a Polish word which roughly translates to pilgrim) is an enthralling and eclectic musical trip that one suspects contains many musical ideas that for one reason or another didn’t quite fit with the epic doom of Doves.

Goodwin himself explains: “I wanted to make this mad mixtape...the kind you pass back and forth with your mates.

“It’s not trying to be wilfully eclectic, it’s just a reflection of how I schizophrenically devour music.’’

It certainly is a sea change from his previous work with songs like Man v Dingo, which contains genres from jazz to ska and most points inbetween.

The constant, and for many fans comforting, factor is Goodwin’s vocals. His world-weary baritone is the most obvious link to his old band.

Co-produced with Dan Austin who has worked with Doves and Pixies, there is a playful experimentation that doesn’t get out of hand.

Among the highlights are Live Like A River which surely will be popular on the student dancefloor, while Oh! Whiskey is almost a polar opposite a rousing piano-led folk rocker.

Best of all though is the closing Panic Tree which is both strange and lovely.

Goodwin’s efforts should satisfy Doves fans and win him some new ones.

Jimi Goodwin