Truthfully I wasn't expecting this album to come out for at least another year. Ranking up there with Trent Reznor and Axl Rose as artists who enjoy being locked away in recording studios (Hey Axl, where is that new album of yours?) Lloyd has quickly returned with his sophomore effort Watching Angels Mend.

Yet don't confuse this as a quick 'cash-in' before his star fades. This man enjoys his music and it is highlighted on all 11 tracks on this set produced by Magnus Fiennes (Morcheeba, All Saints). With a little help from Bernard Fanning, Sharon Finn and others, opener 'Everybody's Laughing' is an uplifting piece that is definitely needed in these troubled times. A definite grower, the song builds up to an almost all-star charity sing-along minus the tackiness. 'Green' is a nice slice of 60's pop in the tradition of Simon & Garfunkel that discusses the overall theme of the album: friendship. 'Trigger', with its remix potential, continues the theme with Lloyd showing off his more rock side.

Refreshingly, Lloyd has the habit of placing his singles towards the middle of the set. This allows the listener to enjoy the other treats on the album without relying on a commercial song to hold up the start of the record. Therefore, the two singles, 'Amazing' & 'Downtown' act as a nice halfway point on the album. The familiar chorus and charm of 'Bus Ride' will make it a crowd-pleaser like 'Aliens' was on his debut album, 'Black the Sun'.

In 'Burn' Lloyd talks about running down the miles. From fronting Sydney outfit Mother Hubbard six years ago to recording in London with British top brass he has come a long way, and still has plenty of miles ahead of him.