"Limited hand-numbered edition of only 100 copies, already sold out at source. Some of you may have heard some whispers about this, Richard Youngs’ much talked-about ‘pop’ album. Beyond The Valley Of Ultrahits began as a dare to see if Richard could put together a classic pop album – and of course he could, albeit with what he perfectly described as his “usual Church of England edge”. Beyond The Valley... presents 10 new original Youngs songs that combine his amazing vocals with overdubbed harmonies, drum machine, keyboard and fuzz guitar all set-up with classic verse/chorus structures and soaring, unforgettable melodies. I mean, it’s pop in terms of Youngs’ world but there’s little here that would pass for actual mainstream pop moves. The whole set is still defined by that classic loose/approximate feel for elastic time-signatures, great DIY pop/punk styles and an atmosphere that fits perfectly with classic eccentric English pop artists: Robert Wyatt, Scott Walker. For me this one blows most of his ‘overground’ Jagjaguwar releases out of the water. Some of his most affecting and beautiful song-writing here – “Radio Innocents” is particularly devastating – and it’s pretty boggling that he would put so much work into a limited to 100 copies album. Every Youngs album is essential in its own way but this is a major release and easily one of his best. Sure to be revered and highly desirable in years to come, make your move now if you wanna be a proud owner. Highest possible recommendation." (Volcanic Tongue)